Tianjin claims second straight victory at FIVB Club World Championship

At the FIVB Women's Club World Championship, Tianjin Bohai Bank secured their second straight victory in the group stage to top Pool A. The Chinese side overcame Italian powerhouses Numia Vero Volley Milano in straight sets, with Tianjin captain Li Yingying and Milano staring opposite Paola Egonu and sharing a match-high of 22 points.

Tianjin started strong when Li delivered a powerful left-handed spike. Milano brought it back to 10-8 following Anna Danesi's attack. The 28-year-old fully showcased her individual skills, and Milano only trailed by one. However, Tianjin were still strong enough to take the opener 25-21.

In the second set, the home side strengthened their defense and actively engaged in blocking to extend their lead to one. Egonu, the Paris Olympics MVP, hit a sharp-angled spike, but it went slightly out of bounds. Another powerful smash from Egonu then went beyond the baseline before an error from Myriam Sylla handed Tianjin the second set, 25-22.

For a decisive point during the third set, both teams competed in a fierce rally. Milano fought to seize the point and tied it at 23-all. But Li converted a trademark attack to fight for match point that Tianjin went on to win 25-23. Up next is Brazil's Gerdau Minas on Thursday.