The four matches of this round of the Chinese Women's Volleyball Super League have come to an end, with the top four teams advancing and the final rankings of each group determined. The last round of matches seems more like a formality. In Group C, Jiangsu tops the standings, followed by Shanghai in second, Fujian in third, and Shenzhen at the bottom with all losses; in Group D, Tianjin ranks first, Liaoning second, Shandong third, and Beijing at the bottom with all defeats.
Tianjin, Liaoning, Jiangsu, and Shanghai have successfully advanced to the top four based on their top two finishes in their respective groups, embarking on the journey to compete for the ultimate championship. After these five rounds of matches are completed, fans can clearly recognize three aspects of the situation.
Yao Di's Strength Should Qualify Her for the National Team
Yao Di is undoubtedly one of the most outstanding setters in the Chinese women's volleyball world. Since joining, she has brought about a revolutionary change to the Tianjin women's volleyball team. Since her return, Tianjin has only lost two sets so far. Except for the first match against Jiangsu (3:1 victory) and the first match of the second stage against Liaoning (3:1 victory), all other events were won 3:0. Yao Di's return not only made Tianjin's organization more orderly but also served as the team's spiritual leader, with her defense not to be underestimated.
This year, the Chinese women's volleyball team faces two major events: the Volleyball League and the Women's Volleyball World Championship. Both events allow each team to register 16 players and can report three setters. Diao Linyu and Ding Xia will continue to compete, with Diao Linyu expected to continue as the main player due to her good physical condition and body status. Yao Di is actually fully qualified to enter the national team, but the reason for her non-selection, besides the coach's considerations, personal willingness may also be a key factor. It is a pity that such an excellent setter did not make it into the national team, even though she is slightly older. It is hoped that the national team can properly resolve this situation this year.
Tianjin Women's Volleyball Team's Unique Strength
After Yao Di's return, if Tianjin can properly address the foreign aid issues, they will undoubtedly remain a unique force in the league. It is widely acknowledged that there is no team in the league that can match them in strength, making it a foregone conclusion.
Only Jiangsu Can Influence the Championship Outcome
Currently, the only team that can challenge Tianjin is probably Jiangsu. After Shanghai lost Xiao Caiwa in the second stage, it became evident from the two matches against Jiangsu that they do not have the capability to challenge Tianjin. Although Jiangsu is not at the same level as Tianjin at present, this team has tremendous potential. If they can control their mistakes well, especially if they can effectively link Diao Linyu and Wu Mengjie, they still have a fighting chance. This is probably the only opponent that Tianjin needs to pay close attention to in the top four battles this year.