China triumph over Brazil in thrilling clash at Women’s Super 6 China triumph over Brazil in thrilling clash at Women’s Super 6

China showcased their superior quickness on both offence and defence, overwhelming Brazil to secure a 3-1 (25-14, 25-17, 22-25, 26-24) victory in this highly anticipated match between the reigning World Cup winners and World Championship titlists in the 2024 WPV Women’s Super 6 at Parc des Sports de Vandoeuvre on Wednesday.

China’s dynamic plays were evident right from the start. They quickly established a double-digit lead and maintained their dominance throughout the first set, leaving Brazil struggling to keep pace. The relentless attack and solid defence of the Chinese team culminated in a decisive 25-14 win.

The second set saw China continue their aggressive play, building an early lead against Brazil. Despite a late push from the South American side, China maintained their composure and distance, closing the set with a 25-17 victory. Consistency was the key as China kept Brazil on the back foot, unable to mount a significant comeback.

Brazil showed signs of resurgence in the third set. With an even score at 5-5, Brazil briefly took the lead at 7-5. China swung the momentum back in their favour, but Brazil quickly tied it at 8-8. A crucial block by Suellen Cristine Dellangelica Lima on Tang Xue Mei kept the score tight at 10-10. Brazil then gained a two-point edge at 12-10, bolstered by strong defence and effective offence from Janaina Petit Cunha and Laiana Rodriues Batista.

As the set progressed, Brazil extended their lead to 18-14. China fought back, reducing the gap to 20-19, with Tang’s crucial attacks keeping the pressure on. Despite China’s efforts, Brazil executed a well-timed drop shot by Janaina and a critical block by Bruna Nascimento Lima to secure the third set, 25-22.

The fourth set was a nail-biter, with both teams tied at 17-17. China managed to break away slightly at 19-17, but Brazil fought hard, tying the score again at 23-23. Laiana’s heroic hit after a long rally gave Brazil set point at 24-23. However, China quickly equalised at 24-24. Wang Yanan’s attack then turned the tables, giving China the advantage at 25-24. Finally, a block-out on a hit by Xu Yixiao sealed the match for China with a 26-24 victory.