China battled from behind to defeat Mexico in four sets in their first match in Pool F at the FIVB Women's Volleyball World Championship in Chiang Mai, Thailand, on Saturday.

In their first World Championship contest under coach Zhao Yong, China faced a team they had played just once at the tournament – back in 2006 – when they swept past Mexico 3-0 in Japan.

Outside hitter Li Yingying, who recently returned from injury, was in the Chinese side's starting lineup, but lacked chemistry with her teammates and didn't contribute much in the way of attacking during her time on the court. Mexico showed aggression on both offense and defense, however, taking the first set 25-22 on a powerful spike from Sofia Maldonado.

Coach Zhao sent on Wu Mengjie and Zhuang Yushan in the second set and both hitters performed well. Neither team led by more than two points during the frame, which saw Mexico grab a 24-23 lead to reach set point.

Wu spiked an equalizer and then landed the go-ahead kill, bringing up set point for her squad. A double block at the net turned back Maldonado with authority, and China claimed the frame 26-24 to level the match at 1-1.

The third set proceeded much more smoothly for the Chinese ladies, who built an early 12-4 advantage, and kept extending their edge before wrapping it up 25-10. Solid defense was the key, as Zhao's side led 12-3 in points off blocks.

Zhuang continued her impressive work in the fourth set, on the way to finishing with a match-high 23 points. The Mexicans worked hard to stay in the contest, but were never able to turn the tables. And when Samantha Bricio's spike sailed out of bounds, they conceded the set 25-18 and lost the opener 3-1.

China will play Colombia on Monday, while Mexico face the Dominican Republic.