Bahrain bow to China in U18 Volleyball : India, Iran, and Japan secure victories in Asian Under-18 Volleyball Championship

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

China’s under-18 volleyball team asserted their dominance in the second round of the Asian Championship, overpowering Bahrain in a straight-sets victory. The scores were 25-8, 25-22, 25-20, showcasing China’s technical superiority and cohesion on the court.

The Chinese team quickly adjusted after the first set, demonstrating a noticeable improvement in both offensive and defensive strategies. Their tall players created a formidable barrier at the net, making it challenging for Bahrain to execute successful attacks. Bahrain’s coach, Fouad Abdel Wahed, attempted to turn the tide with strategic substitutions, but China maintained control with diverse play styles and precise serves.

With this victory, China has accrued five points, bringing them closer to a semi-final berth, while Bahrain remains at one point. Chinese player Yu Jian was a standout performer, scoring 14 points in the match. India’s regained their momentum defeating Saudi Arabia with a commanding straight-sets victory. The scores were 25-13, 25- 11, 25-18, reflecting India’s return to form after recent setbacks.

Indian player Harnor was instrumental in securing the win, contributing 20 points in the third set alone. The Indian team showcased a solid performance, dominating the court with aggressive plays and strategic serves. This victory marks an essential step for India as they aim to secure a higher ranking in the championship, currently competing for positions 9 to 16. Off the court, the Lebanese Volleyball Federation delegation visited the Bahrain Volleyball Association, exchanging views on Arab and Asian volleyball. Lebanese Federation Vice President Ali Haider presented a commemorative gift to Shaikh Ali bin Mohamed bin Rashid Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Volleyball Association and the Higher Organizing Committee, marking Lebanon’s first continental presence in this age group.

In other matches, Iran secured a clean sweep against Thailand (25-16, 25-23, 25-20), boosting their chances of reaching the semi-finals. Amir Naderi led the scoring with 21 points, all from attacks. Pakistan also had a strong showing, defeating Chinese Taipei in four sets (25-20, 24-26, 25-18, 25-23). Mohamed Yahya continued his stellar performance, scoring 29 points despite facing strong defensive walls from Taipei.

Australia defeated Lebanon 3-1 in the 9-18 ranking positions, with Vimatahio scoring 15 points for the winning side. The Philippines celebrated their first victory in the championship, overcoming Hong Kong in a thrilling four-set match (18- 25, 25-20, 28-26, 26-24). Japan overcame Korea 3-1 in a riveting Asian volleyball championship match, securing a semi-final berth alongside Pakistan.

The intense encounter saw Japan triumph 28-30, 25-21, 25-17, 25-18. The first set was a nail-biter, with Korea clinching it after a crucial error by Japan’s Crane Masjedi. However, Japan bounced back, with Masjedi redeeming himself in the second set to level the score. In another match, Kazakhstan swept Kuwait 3-0 (25-20, 25-20, 25-23) in the rankings round, with Mstakhin leading the scoring with 15 points.