Vietnam sweeps Australia to reach AVC Challenge Cup finals

Defending champion Vietnam flexed its might after making quick work of Australia, 25-21, 25-19, 25-16 in the semifinals stage of the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup on Tuesday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

The Vietnamese squad, which ranks 38th in the world, entered the championship round and will take on either the Philippines or Kazakhstan on Wednesday.

Opposite hitter Thi Bich Tuyen Nguyen led Vietnam with 24 points anchored on 21 attacks and three service aces as the squad continued to play amid the absence of injured star Tran Thi Thanh Thuy.  Tu Linh Tran churned out 13 markers while middle blocker Thanh Thuy Le chipped in five points.

Caitlin Tipping powered Australia with 20 points off 15 attacks, four blocks, and one ace as the Volleyroos are now relegated to the battle for third against the loser of the other semis bracket.

Vietnam swept the pool play after going 4-0, defeating Kazakhstan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, and Singapore to enter the final four round with an unblemished record.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News