Korea Breaks Semifinal Drought, Australia Shines at AVC 2026
core: Hàn Quốc thắng Trung Quốc 3-1 ở tứ kết AVC 2026 nhờ Im và Heo mỗi người 21 điểm, chấm dứt chuỗi ngày không vào bán kết.
facts: Hàn Quốc thua set đầu 17-25 rồi thắng 3 set liên tiếp.; Im và Heo cùng ghi 21 điểm.; Trung Quốc có 17 lần chắn bóng (cao nhất giải).
source: Bài phân tích trận đấu từ AVC, ngày 10/9/2026.
qa: q: Hàn Quốc đối thủ ở bán kết?, a: Hàn Quốc sẽ gặp Nhật Bản, đội thắng Ấn Độ.; q: Australia đấu với ai?, a: Australia gặp Iran ở bán kết.
The 2026 Asian Men's Volleyball Championship (AVC) is entering its decisive stage with surprising outcomes. In the quarterfinals held on September 10, Australia demonstrated overwhelming strength by defeating Thailand 3-0 (25-22, 26-24, 25-19). Meanwhile, South Korea caused an upset by coming from behind to beat China 3-1 (17-25, 25-21, 25-22, 29-27), ending a years-long semifinal drought. This article provides an in-depth analysis of both matches and their impact on the tournament landscape.
Australia – A Class Above
Entering the quarterfinal against Thailand, Australia showed maturity and composure. The attacking duo of Lorenzo Pope and Lincoln Williams shone with 17 and 15 points respectively, giving the opponent little chance to turn the tide. Although Thailand topped their pool in the preliminary round, they could not maintain their form under Australian pressure. Notably, Australia won the second set 26-24, demonstrating high concentration at crucial moments. The straight-set victory helped Australia conserve energy and maintain a relaxed mindset ahead of the semifinals. If they continue this form, they can dream of the title.
South Korea – A Spectacular Comeback
South Korea had an emotional journey. After losing the first set 17-25 to China, many thought they would be eliminated early. However, under new coach Isanaye Ramirez, the players showed remarkable fighting spirit. Im Donghyeok and Heo Subong each scored 21 points, becoming the two main offensive weapons that led the team to a comeback. The fourth set ended 29-27, highlighting Korea's nerve in decisive rallies. This is the first time since 2026 that South Korea has reached the semifinals of a major tournament, marking a revival of Korean men's volleyball.
China – Sorrow from the Block
Despite the loss, China left a mark with 17 blocks – the highest in the tournament. Li and Wang each scored 16 points, but relying solely on blocking was not enough to secure victory. The main issue lay in attack and transition defense. After each block, China could not efficiently convert them into points, allowing Korea to easily turn the game around. This is a puzzle that the Chinese coaching staff must solve quickly to avoid similar results in the future.
Semifinals – Hotly Anticipated Matches
Based on quarterfinal results, Australia will face Iran – a team that defeated Chinese Taipei. Meanwhile, South Korea will take on Japan – which beat India in the quarters. Both Australia and Korea are in excellent form, but their opponents are continental powerhouses. Iran possesses power and experience, while Japan has the home advantage and flexible tactics. The ability of Korea and Australia to reach the final will depend on how well they can counter their opponents and exploit their own strengths.
Significance of the Tournament
AVC 2026 is not just a regular Asian championship; it also serves as direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics (the champion gets an automatic berth) and the 2027 World Cup (top three finishers). Therefore, every match is critical. Australia, with their dominant win, is a strong title contender. South Korea has an opportunity to revive men's volleyball if they advance deep. China, despite the defeat, still has chances through world rankings, but immediate improvements are needed.
Overall, AVC 2026 is witnessing a shift in the balance of power in Asian men's volleyball. Australia and Korea have proven they can compete with top teams. Who will be crowned champion? The answer will come after the thrilling semifinals.