Vietnam’s VTV Binh Dien Long An refused to back down against the juggernaut Zhetysu VC, turning what many expected to be a rout into a thrilling, high-stakes showdown in the 2025 AVC Women’s Volleyball Champions League Final.

Though the Kazakhs ultimately emerged victorious, VTV Binh Dien Long An’s resilience earned them admiration and respect on the Asian stage.

Zhetysu VC, known for its towering presence and surgical precision, opened with a crushing 25-14 set win. But VTV Binh Dien Long An, led by the irrepressible Tran Thi Thanh Thuy and dynamic Thi Nhu Quynh Vi, responded with poise, claiming the second set 25-20 through relentless attacks and unbreakable defense.

The third set became the turning point. Despite leading for most of the frame, VTV Binh Dien Long An saw their advantage slip after crucial late errors and a clutch block from Valeriya Yakutina, swinging the match’s momentum decisively toward Zhetysu.

In the fourth, Zhetysu’s depth proved too much. Denysova (23 points) and Nikitina (16 points) spearheaded a 7-3 surge that sealed the crown for the Kazakh powerhouse.

Yet even in defeat, VTV Binh Dien Long An’s spirit shone brightly.

Tran Thi Thanh Thuy delivered a match-best 28 points, alongside six excellent digs and receptions, showcasing why she remains one of Asia’s most dangerous hitters. Vi supported valiantly with 19 points and 10 digs, standing tall despite Zhetysu’s relentless pressure.

Both clubs secured prized berths to the FIVB Women’s Volleyball Club Championship later this year in Thailand — a deserved reward for their brilliance.

“Vietnam played so well — it was a real battle,” said Zhetysu coach Marko Gršić. “They pushed us, but in the end, we stayed strong. They have a great future.”

Denysova crowned her dominant tournament with MVP honors and a Best Outside Hitter selection. Meanwhile, VTV Binh Dien Long An stars Vi (Best Outside Hitter) and Thuy (Best Opposite Spiker) led Vietnam’s individual award haul, with libero Khanh Dang Nguyen also recognized.

Though the trophy went to Kazakhstan, the night belonged equally to the courageous warriors of VTV Binh Dien Long An, whose thrilling stand etched their names among Asia’s elite.