Vietnam blanks Kazakhstan, nets back-to-back AVC Challenge Cup titles

Vietnam flaunted its experience and poise to complete a sweep of Kazakhstan, 25-20, 25-22, 25-22 to rule the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

The Vietnamese crew did so despite the absence of their star player in Tran Thi Thanh Thuy, who was still nursing an injury.

Kazakhstan, which ended the Philippines dream run after a sweep victory in their semifinals clash on Tuesday, finished second.

Opposite hitter Thi Bich Tuyen Nguyen top led the way for Vietnam, pouring in 26 points anchored on 24 attacks, one block, and one ace en route to bagging the tournament MVP honors. Tu Linh Tran and middle blocker Thanh Thuy Le chipped in nine and seven markers apiece. 

Sana Anarkulova, who was one of the two Best Outside Hitters, paced Kazakhstan with 15 points as Kristina Anikonova chimed in with 10 markers. 

With the victory, Vietnam punched its ticket to the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup in July alongside the Philippines, who sealed its spot by serving as the host. 

In 2023 edition, Vietnam pulled off a thrilling reverse sweep victory against Indonesia to rule the contest. 

—JKC, GMA Integrated News