China lost to Turkey 3-1 in Volleyball Nations League Finals opener
Li Jing
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The game between China and Turkey at the FIVB Volleyball Nations League Finals in Nanjiang, July 3, 2019. /CGTN Photo

The game between China and Turkey at the FIVB Volleyball Nations League Finals in Nanjiang, July 3, 2019. /CGTN Photo

The Chinese women's volleyball team have lost to Turkey 3-1 on Wednesday at the ongoing FIVB Volleyball Nations League Finals in Nanjiang, east China's Jiangsu Province.

China had a relatively smooth start but Turkey quickly caught up and won the first set 25-22.

In the second set, aggressive Turkey were in the winning streak and dominated the game with a 25-19 end.

Spectators cheer for the Chinese team during the game. /VCG Photo

Spectators cheer for the Chinese team during the game. /VCG Photo

An intense third set was delivered between the two teams, with tie at 15-15, 18-18, 20-20, 21-21 and 22-22.

The Chinese squad came from behind to 23-22, leading the set for the first time. Eventually, China won the set 25-22.

In the fourth set, Turkey remained powerful attack with good defense, and ended the game 25-22.

"I think our team did a good job, but we could have done better in detail," Chinese team captain Liu Xiaotong said after the match.

Chinese women's volleyball team coach An Jiajie (L) and team captain Liu Xiaotong during post-match press conference in Nanjing, July 3, 2019. /CGTN Photo

Chinese women's volleyball team coach An Jiajie (L) and team captain Liu Xiaotong during post-match press conference in Nanjing, July 3, 2019. /CGTN Photo

Without top players such as superstar Zhu Ting, Zhang Changning and Yuan Xinyue, the Chinese young line-up is mostly composed of substitute players.

Despite China's loss, 26-year-old Liu Yanhan gained 21 points, the highest among all players.

Chinese team coach An Jiajie explained this is to train young players in preparation for next year's Olympics.

"We hope to make use of such league games to give young players opportunities. Some of them have great potential. They are not afraid of such big event, and have given their best performance."

Chinese players block the net, July 3, 2019. /VCG Photo

Chinese players block the net, July 3, 2019. /VCG Photo

"I am thankful that our players performed well during the game, but unfortunately, we didn't win. We need to improve tactics such as serves and counter-attacks," said coach An.

Earlier, the U.S. team beat Poland 3-1, which will face Brazil on July 5.

China will next face Italy on Friday. The finals will run until July 7.