Philippines, April 21, 2025 – VTV Binh Dien Long An fell just short in a thrilling 2–3 defeat to China’s Beijing BAIC Motor in Pool C of the 2025 AVC Women’s Club Championship at Philsports Arena in Pasig on April 21.
Under coach Lai Thai Quang, the Vietnamese champions stormed out to a two-set lead—25–22 and 25–21—powered by setter Vo Thi Kim Thoa’s precise distribution and powerful finishes from Tran Thi Thanh Thuy, alongside key contributions from import Natalia Lijewska and wing attacker Vi Thi Nhu Quynh
However, Beijing BAIC Motor mounted a stunning comeback. They adjusted their blocking and service pressure to win the third set 25–19, then capitalized on clearly waning Vietnamese energy to dominate the fourth set 25–13. In the decisive fifth set, Long An’s block struggled to contain Beijing’s attack, and the Chinese side closed out the match 15–10, completing a reverse sweep and clinching the first quarterfinal berth from Pool C
Playing five grueling sets took a noticeable toll on the Long An squad’s stamina and focus, with several players visibly slowing in critical rallies. Coach Lai Thai Quang stressed that, despite the loss, the match offered invaluable lessons in endurance, mental resilience, and tactical flexibility at the highest level of Asian club volleyball.
Next, VTV Binh Dien Long An faces a must-win encounter against Iran’s Saipa Tehran on April 22 to keep their quarterfinal hopes alive. The 12-team tournament runs from April 20–27, with Pool C comprising Beijing BAIC Motor, Long An, and Saipa Tehran—the top two advancing to the knockout stage. A victory over Saipa will secure Long An’s place in the quarterfinals and extend their campaign in this elite continental competition.
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