BANGKOK, Thailand — NEC Red Rockets Kawasaki advanced to the final of the AVC Women’s Champions League 2026 after defeating defending champions Zhetysu in four sets on April 29, securing the first spot in the championship match and becoming the first team to qualify for the FIVB Volleyball Club World Championship to represent Asia.
The Japanese club claimed a 3–1 victory (25–18, 25–20, 24–26, 25–22), delivering a composed and controlled performance to overcome the reigning titleholders.
NEC Red Rockets Kawasaki established early control, taking the opening two sets behind a balanced offensive effort and consistent execution. Zhetysu responded in the third set, edging a tightly contested frame to extend the match, but NEC regained momentum in the fourth to close out the victory.
Sylvia Nwakalor led NEC’s scoring with 23 points, combining powerful attacking with presence at the net, while Yoshino Sato added 22 points to support a well-rounded offensive effort. The duo anchored NEC’s attack, allowing the team to dictate tempo and apply sustained pressure against Zhetysu throughout the match.
For Zhetysu, Tatyana Nikitina led the scoring with 18 points, contributing 15 attack points and four blocks in a strong individual effort despite the loss.
Statistically, NEC’s offensive efficiency proved decisive, finishing with a 61–48 advantage in attack points. They also dominated from the service line with seven aces compared to Zhetysu’s one, helping disrupt the defending champions’ rhythm. While Zhetysu held the edge in blocks (15–7), NEC offset this through superior attacking output and consistent pressure that forced 24 opponent errors.
Zhetysu, the tournament’s defending champions, showed resilience after dropping the first two sets but were unable to sustain their challenge as NEC maintained composure in key moments.
With the win, NEC Red Rockets Kawasaki not only advance to the final but also secure one of the tournament’s two qualification spots for the world championship, earning the first berth available from the competition.
The AVC Women’s Champions League 2026 continues in Bangkok, with the final set to determine the continental champion. Matches are available to watch live on VBTV. For more information on match schedules and official photos, visit https://asianvolleyball.com/volleyball/WomensChampionsLeague2026.
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