The playoffs of the Volleyball Super League have entered a fierce stage. Teams like Fujian, Shenzhen, Shandong, and Beijing BAIC must improve their technical and tactical levels to avoid early elimination.
Beijing BAIC and Liaoning were pre-season favorites to win the championship, but now they are fighting to avoid relegation, which is unexpected.
Currently, Tianjin and Jiangsu are likely to secure their top four spots, while Beijing BAIC and Liaoning have lost their chances to advance, which is worth reflecting on.
In the fourth round of the playoffs, Tianjin will face Liaoning again, and Jiangsu will challenge Fujian. We hope they can play at a high level and provide fans with an exciting and suspenseful match.
Tianjin is in good form and should defeat Liaoning again in the playoffs. As reigning champions, Tianjin's double-elimination of Liaoning and advancement to the semi-finals is just a matter of time.
After the Club World Cup, Tianjin's team spirit has improved, making it difficult for others to stop them. The addition of Japanese libero Fujii Riko has strengthened Tianjin's championship puzzle. I predict Tianjin will win 3-0 against Liaoning.
Jiangsu's main setter Diao Linyu and libero Ni Feifan have returned, boosting the team's confidence. Their future looks promising. Even if Fujian's "Little Cannon" Zhuang Yushan performs well, it may not change the outcome. Zhuang might only lament her untimely fate. With her comprehensive skills, joining a strong team like Shanghai could challenge Tianjin.
Shanghai, being much stronger than Shenzhen, could easily win 3-0 if they don't hold back. Shanghai aimed for the championship, but Fedorovtseva's departure has put them at a disadvantage. They might miss the title again, a view supported by most fans.
Shandong always gets energized when facing Beijing BAIC. Their matches are always intense five-set battles. After winning 3-2 last time, Shandong could do the same this time, potentially eliminating Beijing BAIC and advancing to the semi-finals.
Tianjin's double-elimination of Liaoning and Jiangsu's victory over Fujian seem certain, giving them a strong chance to advance early.