Alas Pilipinas could not stop Nguyen Thi Bich Thuyen, who led Vietnam to a three-set victory, 25-14, 25-22, 25-21, in their quarterfinal encounter at the 2024 FIVB Women’s Volleyball Challenger Cup on Friday night.
With the Philippines out of contention, Vietnam advanced to the semifinals against Czechia after their showdown at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
The 6’2″ Nguyen tallied 30 points, with 27 from her attacks, propelling Vietnam to become the last Asian squad still in contention for a spot in the FIVB Women’s Volleyball Nations League.
In the final set, two long volleys from Nguyen brought Vietnam close to match point, 24-20.
After Filipina spiker Vanie Gandler scored on a block, a blocking error by teammate Sisi Rondina handed Vietnam the final match point in the third set.
Rondina scored 15 points for Alas Pilipinas, while Angel Canino added 11.
“We have a chance. My teammates and I played well,” said Vietnam team skipper Tran Thi Than Thuy at the end of their 75-minute confrontation.
World No. 16 Czechia breezed past World No. 17 Argentina in straight sets, 25-15, 25-22, 25-16, earlier in the day.
Vietnam and Czechia join Belgium and Puerto Rico in the semifinals.
Czechia’s team captain Michaela Mlejnkova led with 13 points from 12 attacks and one block.
Czechia started strong, building an 8-4 lead behind Mlejnkova.
The Czechs will face Vietnam at 6:30 p.m., following Belgium’s clash with Puerto Rico at 3 p.m.
