After a somewhat shaky first set, the Vietnamese women's team quickly regained the game to win the remaining 3 sets in a row. Besides the stable performance of captain Thanh Thuy or Nhu Quynh, Bich Thuy, the bright spot also lies in the changes in the defense system and the attacking efficiency of the middle blockers.
If in set 1, Indonesia continuously exploited the gap between the block and the rear of Vietnam, then from set 2, the home team significantly improved their situation reading ability.
The defenders covered better, limiting many second balls and diagonal spikes from the opponent. Thanks to that, the setter had many opportunities to organize counter-attacks, instead of just handling in a passive position.
Another bright spot is the efficiency of the blocking system. The Vietnamese blocking line not only brought in direct points but also significantly reduced Indonesia's attacking power.
Many spikes of the opponent were blocked, reducing strength or changing direction, creating conditions for the rear line to save the ball and deploy counter-attacks. This is a factor that helped Vietnam gradually impose the game after losing the opening set.
Notably, the middle blockers also left more marks compared to the opening match. Instead of mainly performing the task of blocking the ball, they often appeared in quick attacks, one-footed attacks behind the head or taking advantage of blocking to score points. This made the Indonesian blocking line unable to focus all their attention on Thanh Thuy.
The fact that middle blockers participate in scoring points regularly is of great significance. In the context that opponents are increasingly studying Vietnam's playing style, the ability to share the attacking burden will make it more difficult for the team to read. When the opponent is forced to disperse the block, the main blockers also have more space to develop their strengths.
These positive signals are especially valuable before the confrontation with Thailand. The Golden Temple team always possesses a solid defense system and a highly organized defense.
If only relying on two main attacking spearheads, the Vietnamese team will face many difficulties. Conversely, a stable defense system and middle blockers who know how to speak up at the right time will help coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet's team have more options to create breakthroughs.
The victory over Indonesia therefore not only brought home three points. More importantly, it shows that the Vietnamese women's team is gradually perfecting their playing style in a more balanced direction between attack and defense, while opening up new "explosive points" in attack.
If these positive signs continue to be maintained, the team will have more basis to confidently enter the match considered to be the decisive match for the top spot in stage 1 of SEA V.Cup 2026 against Thailand.
