Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Women's Volleyball Nations League match.
The clash between China and Poland stands out among the key fixtures of the upcoming Nations League round. Both squads are currently ranked inside the world’s top six and are competing for higher positions in the tournament standings. Poland are looking to build on last year’s campaign, while China, playing on home soil, have shown inconsistency in recent matches.
China (women)
China, currently fifth in the world rankings, have struggled to produce convincing performances. Last year, they were eliminated in the quarter-finals of the Nations League following a straight-sets loss to Japan, ranked seventh. This year, China began the tournament with a win over Belgium (15th), but were pushed to a tiebreak in the second set despite holding a seven-point lead. In last year's meeting with Poland women's national volleyball team, China women's national volleyball team secured a commanding 3:0 win with an 18-point margin, but their current form does not reflect that level.
Poland (women)
Poland, ranked sixth, have made a strong start to this year’s competition with four consecutive victories, including wins over three top-20 teams — Thailand, France, and Bulgaria. After earning bronze in last year’s Nations League, Poland began with a straight-sets win over Thailand (13th), although each set was closely contested, with no more than a three-point gap and a tiebreak required in the second set.
China (women) vs Poland (women) Prediction
Poland appear to be in stronger form heading into this match, while China remain inconsistent. Home advantage may not prove decisive. Poland are expected to mount a serious challenge and are likely to take at least one set.