(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
China, Argentina, and Japan Shine as Quarterfinal Lineup Finalized at Women’s U21 Volleyball World Championship 2025
The race for the title is heating up at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s U21 World Championship, with defending champions China, along with Argentina and Japan, keeping their unbeaten runs alive to secure quarterfinal spots. Action took place across the JAWA POS Arena, Gelora Pancasila, and Samator Healthporia Volleyball Hall.
Also advancing to the last eight are Brazil, Türkiye, Bulgaria, Italy, and Poland, while Canada, Vietnam, Dominican Republic, and Chile claimed victories in the classification round for 17th–24th place.
China opened the knockout stage in style, sweeping Thailand 3-0 (25-15, 25-18, 25-19). Li Hanyu led the early charge with quick attacks and four blocks, while captain Li Chenxuan added 15 points. Thailand’s Kanchana Sisaikaeo (12 points) and Warisara Seetaloed (11) fought hard, but China’s disciplined defense proved decisive.
Argentina followed with another clean sweep, defeating Czechia 3-0 (25-15, 25-13, 25-19). Returning star Martina Bednarek scored 17 points, supported by Maria Bernardita Aguilar Toranza with 13. Czechia’s Bara Rejmanova was limited to 10 points as Argentina dominated with eight aces and 12 blocks.
Japan faced a tougher battle, overcoming Croatia 3-1 (25-16, 22-25, 25-17, 25-17). Sae Omori scored 17 points, backed by Ichiyo Ito (11) and Miina Inoue (10). Croatia’s Asja Zolota stood out with 26 points, but Japan’s sharp transitions sealed the win.
Brazil bounced back from a pool-stage loss to Japan, sweeping Korea 3-0 (25-23, 25-17, 25-17). Aline Segato Maestri (15 points) and Rebeca Borges Viana (14) led the charge as Brazil’s blocking game, featuring 15 total blocks, shut down the opposition.
Türkiye moved forward with a 3-0 (25-14, 25-23, 25-10) victory over Serbia, powered by Defne Basyolcu (17 points) and Liza Safronova (13). Serbia struggled to recover after narrowly losing the second set.
One of the day’s surprises came from Bulgaria, who upset the United States 3-0 (25-23, 25-16, 25-15). Iva Dudova (14 points) and captain Viktoria Koeva (13) combined strong attacking and blocking to outclass the American side.
With the quarterfinals set, fans can look forward to high-intensity clashes as the championship enters its decisive stage.
