China's women's volleyball team saw their FIVB Nations League (VNL) journey end Thursday after a nail-biting 3-0 loss to rivals Japan in Bangkok. Despite fielding a reserve lineup led by captain Zhang Changning, the three-time Olympic champions kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle 🏐💨.
The match started strong, with China clawing back from a deficit to tie the first set 20-20 before Japan sealed it 25-21. Japan's fierce serves dominated the second set (also 25-21), but the third saw both teams locked in a tense battle 🤯. Japan narrowly pulled ahead at 24-21 after a video challenge and clinched victory 25-22.
Though already qualified for Paris 2024, China's spirited efforts highlighted their depth and resilience. Fans praised the squad's grit on social media, with many calling it a “learning moment for the next gen” 👏🌱.
