The Asian powerhouse prepares to face France in the Round of 16, while the Caribbean team readies for a challenge against Brazil.
Displaying greater consistency than in their initial two matches, the Chinese team secured their first straight-sets victory in Thailand.
China, a formidable presence in Asian volleyball, delivered their most impressive performance yet at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship. They concluded their undefeated run through pool play with a commanding victory over the Dominican Republic.
Competing in Chiang Mai, the Chinese squad, which had previously dropped sets against both Mexico and Colombia, showcased remarkable teamwork and power. They decisively swept the “Queens of the Caribbean” in straight sets (25-15, 25-21, 25-17) during their final Pool C encounter.
This triumph secured nine points for China, solidifying their first-place position in Pool F standings. Their next challenge in the Round of 16 will be against France, who finished second in Pool C. Meanwhile, the Dominican Republic, having secured second place in their pool with six points, is set to face Pool A leaders Brazil. Both highly anticipated Round of 16 matches are scheduled for Sunday in Bangkok.
Wu Mengjie spearheaded China`s scoring effort with 16 points, consisting of 15 kills and one block. Fellow outside hitter Zhuang Yushan also made a significant impact with 15 points, accumulating 12 kills, two blocks, and one ace. Middle blocker Wang Yuanyuan contributed ten points through five kills and five blocks.
“Our team`s persistent effort today truly excites me,” commented Wu. “We felt we weren`t performing at our peak in the initial two matches. However, our preparation for today was excellent, and our performance significantly improved. I am optimistic that we can maintain this high level of play in the elimination rounds. We are committed to pushing forward, one step at a time.”
For the Dominican Republic, team captain and outside hitter Brayelin Martínez was their top scorer with 15 points (13 kills, one block, one ace).
Outside hitter Massiel Matos, who came off the bench and added seven points, acknowledged China`s strength. “They are a formidable team with exceptional fundamentals,” Matos explained. “We tried to challenge them as we did in the VNL, but they played exceptionally well today. Facing Brazil in the Round of 16 will be an incredibly tough match. We will strive to play our best and hopefully secure a victory.”
A crucial factor in China`s success was their disciplined play, committing only ten errors compared to the Dominican Republic`s 17. China also outperformed their opponents in offensive statistics, recording 44 kills to the Dominican Republic`s 34, and a significant 13 blocks against their six. The Caribbean side, however, held a slight advantage in serves, with three aces to China`s one.
In another match within the same pool, Mexico defeated Colombia 3-2 (25-22, 22-25, 25-23, 25-18, 15-12), concluding their tournament with a hard-fought victory and finishing third in the pool with two points.
Jasper Thornfield 
Oliver Wrenwick