Tianjin's Li Yingying (L), Wang Yizhu (C) and Wang Yuanyuan (R) in action during the FIVB Women's Club World Championship in Hangzhou, China's Zhejiang province, December 17, 2024. /CFP
At the FIVB Women's Club World Championship, Tianjin Bohai Bank kicked off their campaign with a dominant victory over Egypt's Zamalek Sporting Club, winning 25-16, 25-18, 25-15. Wang Yizhu, Li Yingying, and Chen Boya combined for 48 points in the impressive performance.
Tianjin, who finished third last year for the club's best-ever result at the tournament, started strong. Yao Di set up Irina Fetisova for a powerful spike as Tianjin took an early 14-9 lead in the opening set. Tianjin libero Liu Liwen saved a spike from Maya Mamdouh, and Li Yingying followed with her trademark forceful left-handed attack, extending the lead to 16-9.
After taking the first set 25-16, Tianjin maintained their momentum, playing patiently and setting up another aggressive finish from Li. Wang Yizhu demonstrated her exceptional control in the next rally, finishing with a match-high 17 points. She later showcased her offensive versatility with a sharp-angled spike, helping Tianjin preserve their two-point lead. Tianjin went on to win the next two sets 25-18 and 25-15. Up next for the Chinese side is the Italian powerhouse, Numia Vero Volley Milano.