Tianjin becomes first Chinese team to reach final at FIVB Women's Club World Championship

Tianjin Bohai Bank etched its name in history after becoming the first Chinese team to reach the final at the Federation of International Volleyball (FIVB) Women's Club World Championship, triumphing over Brazil's Dentil Praia Clube 3-1 in Hangzhou on Saturday.

As the third-place finisher from the previous edition, Tianjin entered the tournament with renewed confidence. Despite earlier injury concerns for captain Li Yingying, a recent period of rest allowed the star spiker to contribute significantly, helping Tianjin secure an impressive five-game winning streak to conclude the regular season in the China Volleyball League.

While fatigue from the domestic campaign weighed on the players, Tianjin's experience fostered resilience and determination in overcoming adversity. Throughout the group stage at the Club World Championship, they advanced without dropping a set, which greatly boosted the squad's morale, while also strengthening the trust between the players and coach Chen Fang.

Facing the tenacious Dentil Praia in the semifinals, Tianjin's keen focus on service receptions helped create ample scoring opportunities for skipper Li, who rose to the occasion, scoring 10 of her match-high 32 points in the first set.

Although Tianjin's energy waned in the third set – allowing its opponents to avoid a sweep – the Chinese club swiftly regained its composure in the fourth, denying Dentil Praia any chance for a turnaround. In the end, Tianjin prevailed 25-23, 25-21, 24-26, 25-22 to secure a spot in the final.

In the championship match, Li will go head-to-head with her national teammate Zhu Ting, who helped Imoco Volley Conegliano breeze past Italian rivals Novara Vero Volley Milano 3-0 in the other semifinal.

Zhu played a pivotal role in her side's victory, contributing 15 points and solidifying the team's third consecutive appearance in the final. Ahead of the highly-anticipated clash, the Chinese veteran outside hitter said, "No matter the outcome, I will be delighted, and I believe it will be an exciting match."