AVC Cup 2026: Vietnam Women's Volleyball Defeats Indonesia in a Thrilling Score Chase

Vietnam's women's volleyball squad faced significant challenges before overcoming Indonesia with a hard-fought 3-2 win (18-25, 25-22, 25-18, 19-25, 15-13), which further solidified their status as the defending titleholders.

Vietnam Women's Volleyball Edges Indonesia in AVC Cup 2026

Contrary to fan expectations, Vietnam started poorly despite fielding a strong lineup that included Tran Thi Thanh Thuy in the starting roster. Indonesia displayed thorough preparation by effectively neutralizing the opponent's attacks while organizing solid defense and sharp counterattacks. Coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet's personnel adjustments at the end of the first set failed to yield the desired results, leading to Vietnam's 18-25 loss.

In the second set, the situation remained challenging for the red-shirted girls. Thanh Thuy faced significant pressure as she handled both receiving duties and scoring responsibilities. However, timely performances from Bich Thuy and Nhu Anh helped Vietnam capitalize on opportunities more effectively. Meanwhile, Indonesia's offense could not sustain the impressive output from the opening set. A 25-22 win allowed Vietnam to level the score at 1-1.

This also marked a turning point in the match. In the third set, Vietnam gradually regained their familiar form. Their combinations became more cohesive, the blocking improved, and they consistently applied pressure on the opponent. Indonesia began to make numerous unforced errors, while Thanh Thuy, Vi Quynh, Nguyen Uyen, and Nhu Anh scored consecutively. Winning 25-18, Vietnam took a 2-1 lead and moved closer to victory.

However, Indonesia did not easily accept defeat. The team from the archipelago entered the fourth set with high determination and continued to display commendable defensive skills. Their blockers read the situation well, repeatedly neutralizing attacks from Vietnam's wings. Meanwhile, Vietnam also made several mistakes in serve reception and gameplay organization. These issues caused Coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet's squad to lose 19-25, forcing the match into a decisive fifth set.

Drama reached its peak in the final set. Vietnam started with great energy, quickly building a 6-2 lead and extending it to 10-4 thanks to effective blocking and powerful finishes from Thanh Thuy and Bich Thuy. However, just when victory seemed within reach, Indonesia mounted a fierce comeback. The red-clad team scored five consecutive points, steadily closing the gap and even tying the score at 13-13 following unfortunate errors from Vietnam.

At the moment of greatest pressure, the resilience of Vietnam's players shone through. Nhu Anh and Bich Thuy executed two decisive attacks to secure the final points, helping Vietnam close out the fifth set with a 15-13 victory.

Although they did not display their best form, the win over Indonesia still demonstrated the fighting spirit and ability to overcome adversity of the Vietnam women's volleyball team. This will serve as a valuable lesson for Coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet and his players in their journey to defend the AVC Cup 2026 title.