In their second match of the Volleyball Nations League, the hosts from the Chinese city of Xi'an surprised the volleyball world with a decisive victory over the favorite Serbia. The proteges of Belgian coach Vital Heynen won the match 3-0 (25:23, 25:23, 25:20).
A coaching era with a new face
The collaboration between China and Vital Heynen began in 2024, after the specialist left the German women's national team. Since then, the development of the Chinese men's team has been on the rise. Having missed the 2024 VNL edition, the Chinese returned this year thanks to the expanded format and achieved promotion alongside Ukraine.
An unexpected turnaround against an experienced squad
Serbia also missed last year's tournament but has now returned with ambition and an experienced squad, selected by coach Vuk Kulpinač. The Serbian team, although using the tournament as preparation for the World Championship, included stars like Marko Ivović and Dražen Luburić. Both scored 12 points, but their attack was ineffective – with only 18.52% and 12.50% efficiency, respectively.
Chinese aces showed class
The most effective player for China was Ji Daoshuai with 13 points and 30.43% attack efficiency. Captain Jiang Chuan added another 12 points, and the entire team played with discipline and concentration in crucial moments. They outperformed the Serbian team in almost all indicators – 13 block points (against 11 for Serbia), two more aces, and most importantly – six fewer errors than their opponent.
Clash of rankings and points
Before the match, Serbia held 10th place in the FIVB world rankings, while China was in 24th position. After the surprising victory, the Chinese team climbed four places, while Serbia lost 15.98 points and dropped to 12th position.
Match statistics
Final score:
China – Serbia 3:0(25:23, 25:23, 25:20)
China squad:
Ji Daoshuai (13), Peng (5), Jiang Chuan (12), Yu Y.T. (9), Li (7), Yu Y.C. (3), Qu (libero), Wen (4), Wang
Serbia squad:
Marko Ivović (12), Masulović N. (8), Dražen Luburić (12), Masulović V. (2), Nedeljković (9), Jovović (2), Ristić (libero), Nikolić, Perić (6), Brborić, Todorović
This success for China not only confirms the upward trajectory under Heynen's leadership but also emphasizes that no one should be underestimated in the dynamic competition of the Nations League.
photo:volleyballworld.com
