In a showcase of remarkable resilience, host nation China bounced back from the edge of defeat to upset top-seeded USA 3-2 and reach the semifinals of the FIVB Women's Volleyball Nations League Finals in China's Macao Special Administrative Region on Thursday.

The Americans dominated the opening set 25-15, but China responded by edging the second 25-23 before taking the third 25-20. The USA forced a decider with a 25-17 fourth-set victory. The team in red maintained strong focus in the fifth, twice erasing three-point deficits before sealing a dramatic 15-13 win, much to the delight of the home supporters. 

Outside hitter Zhuang Yushan was China's highest scorer with 17 points, while captain Gong Xiangyu led from the front with 15 and Tang Xin added 13. Middle blocker Wang Yuanyuan also reached double figures with 12 points as China outblocked the opponent 9-7 and committed six fewer unforced errors, to subdue the attacking advantage of the Americans. 

"I am so happy we advanced to the semifinals! We didn't do well enough in previous five-set matches, so this match today is a boost to our confidence," an elated Zhuang said.

Jordan Thompson was the highest scorer for the USA with 24 points, while Dana Rettke added 18. Despite recording a 74-58 edge in kills, the Americans were unable to make their attacking dominance count.  

China will next meet Türkiye in Saturday's semifinals, while defending champion Italy will take on Brazil in the other last-four match-up.