Despite the home advantage, the Vietnamese team struggled early, losing the first two sets 17-25 and 24-26 against Thailand’s fast and experienced play.

The turning point came in the third set when coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet introduced main attacker Tran Thi Nhu Quynh. Her aggressive attacks energized the team, helping Vietnam win the third set 25-17 and maintain momentum to take the fourth 25-22, pushing the match into a decisive fifth set.

The final set was a nail-biting battle, with both teams exchanging leads and the crowd roaring with every point scored by Vietnam. At the critical moment, star scorer Tran Thi Bich Tuyen delivered a powerful spike, sealing the set 16-14 and the match 3-2 in favour of Vietnam.

This victory marks the first time Vietnam have overcome Thailand, the region’s top team, in an official tournament, ending the match to the roar of ecstatic fans in Ninh Binh Arena and jubilant embraces among the players.

Vietnam’s comeback triumph not only secured the SEA V.League championship but also opened a new chapter of hope for greater achievements in women’s volleyball in the future.

Vietnam defeat Philippines in opener of SEA V.League second leg

VOV.VN - Vietnam secured a convincing victory over the Philippines in the opening match of the second leg of the 2025 Southeast Asia Women’s Volleyball League (SEA V.League), held in Ninh Binh on August 8.