Kazakhstan delivered its biggest statement yet in the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women’s Volleyball Cup, ending years of frustration against Vietnam with a thrilling five-set victory on Friday, June 12, at the Candon City Arena.

Behind a determined team effort and clutch performances from its veteran stars, Kazakhstan outlasted defending champion Vietnam, 18-25, 25-19, 23-25, 25-22, 15-13, to complete an unbeaten run through Pool B competition.

Kazakhstan Ends Drought

The victory marked a significant breakthrough for Kazakhstan, which had repeatedly fallen short against Vietnam in recent years. The Kazakhs suffered defeats to the Southeast Asian powerhouse twice in 2024, including the AVC Women’s Challenge Cup gold medal match in Manila, before bowing again in the semifinals of the 2025 AVC Nations Cup in Hanoi.

This time, however, Kazakhstan finally reversed the result and secured one of its most memorable victories in recent international competition. The win also ended Vietnam’s impressive streak of 23 consecutive victories dating back to 2023.

Kristina Belova and Yuliya Fomenko spearheaded Kazakhstan’s charge in the decisive fifth set, combining for nine points, including eight attacks, during the closing stretch of the match. Their composure under pressure helped the Kazakhs fend off repeated Vietnamese rallies and close out the contest.

“We had lost against Vietnam and this win was really important for us. We prepared for this and I think we did a great job,” Belova said after the match.

Semifinal Spots Secured

Belova finished with 21 points built on 19 attacks and two blocks, continuing her strong return to the Kazakhstan lineup after helping the team capture silver in 2024. Her all-around performance proved vital as the Kazakhs improved to 5-0 in Pool B play.

Zhanna Syroyeshkina matched Belova’s output with 21 points, including six service aces, while Tatyana Yatskiv added 20 points from 17 attacks, two blocks and an ace. Fomenko also made a significant contribution with 13 points on nine attacks, three blocks and one ace.

Despite the loss, Vietnam still advanced to the semifinals with a 4-1 record. Star outside hitter Tran Thi Thanh Thuy once again led the team offensively, scoring 25 points, all from attacks, although only four of those points came during the deciding fifth set.

Kazakhstan’s perfect Pool B campaign secured a semifinal showdown against the second-ranked team from Pool A. Vietnam, meanwhile, will face the Pool A winner as both teams continue their pursuit of the AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup title.