Despite winning the 2025 AVC Nations Cup and dropping just one set throughout the tournament, Vietnam’s women’s volleyball team has revealed critical weaknesses that worry experts and fans alike.

One major concern emerged in the semifinal against Kazakhstan, where the team lost a set 19-25 due to inconsistent first-ball reception and back-row defense. Head coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet admitted, “Things could have been worse if we had faced a truly strong opponent.”

Vietnam now heads into the VTV Ferroli Cup 2025 (June 28 - July 5 at Vinh Phuc Gymnasium) with a clear mission: urgently address technical shortcomings and finalize the squad in preparation for upcoming key competitions.

In a notable lineup adjustment, libero Nguyen Thi Ninh Anh (born in 2000, from Vietinbank Club) has been called up for the first time to compete directly with the current starter Nguyen Khanh Dang, replacing Luu Thi Ly Ly.

For the first time, Vietnam will field two teams at the VTV Cup: the national squad and the U21 women’s team. The tournament provides all 20 current call-ups, especially rising talents, an opportunity to prove their potential.

The pressure is high, as Vietnam aims to win its first-ever SEA Games gold medal this December. This is an especially daunting task, as they must topple Thailand, which has dominated the SEA Games for 14 consecutive editions since 1995 and currently ranks 12th in the world - 20 places ahead of Vietnam.

Following the VTV Cup, the team will continue with back-to-back tournaments including the 2025 SEA V.League and the World Championship. Meanwhile, the U21 squad is set to make its debut at the U21 World Championship in August.

This intense schedule offers ample chances to apply lessons learned and improve strategies - particularly in defense - to build momentum toward their ultimate goal: a SEA Games gold medal.

With a core of top athletes in their prime - such as Thanh Thuy, Bich Tuyen, Khanh Dang, and Lam Oanh - combined with thorough preparation and a strong sense of unity and resolve from the coaching staff to every player, Vietnamese fans have reason to hope for a breakthrough transformation in the women’s game.

PV