China capped an undefeated run through Pool F with a convincing 3-0 sweep of the Dominican Republic at the FIVB Women’s World Championship on Wednesday, stamping their authority as the competition shifts to the knockout stage.
Both teams had already secured spots in the round of 16, but coach Zhao Yong’s side left no doubt with set scores of 25-15, 25-21 and 25-17. Rising star Wu Mengjie, back to full strength after an earlier injury, sparked the offense in the opening set, tying the score at 10-10 before fueling a 14-10 surge that set the tone.
In the second frame, the Dominican Republic closed the gap with a kill from Alondra Denis Tapia Cruz, but a big block by Wang Yuanyuan swung momentum back to China, who closed out the set 25-21.
The final set saw China extend their lead early, with Wang again at the net to push the score to 19-14. Zhuang Yushan sealed the sweep with a powerful finish, 25-17, capping a perfect group stage.
With top spot in Pool F secured, China now faces Pool C runners-up France in the round of 16, while the Dominican Republic take on Pool C winners Brazil in a mouthwatering clash.
Reference(s):
China beat Dominican Republic 3-0 at FIVB Women's World Championship
cgtn.com
