The Chinese women’s volleyball team arrived at Galaxy International Convention Centre in Cotai yesterday ahead of the “Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) – Finals Macao 2026 presented by Galaxy Entertainment Group”, with team captain Gong Xiangyu expressing confidence in the squad’s preparations and hopes of achieving a strong result on home ground.
The VNL Finals will take place between tomorrow and Sunday at the Macao East Asian Games Dome in Cotai, featuring eight teams competing in a single-elimination format for the championship title. Friday is rest day.
According to a recent statement by the Sports Bureau (ID), the eight teams comprise Brazil, Canada, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Turkey, and the US, along with host nation China.
The tournament is co-organised by the Sports Bureau (ID), Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG) and the Volleyball Association of Macao.
The team were welcomed by various representatives including Sports Bureau (ID) Vice President Cheang Kai Meng upon arrival.
China will face the US on Thursday at 7:30 p.m., according to the statement.
Speaking to the media yesterday, Gong said that the team is looking forward to competing in the finals in Macau and will aim to perform at its best. “We are looking forward to the finals in Macau. We also hope to perform at our best in the match and make progress”, she said.
When asked about preparations for the opening knockout match, Gong said the team has been strategising and hopes to deliver its best performance, thanking fans for their continued support. “Thank you for your support and love. We will keep working hard”, she said.
Gong also said that she enjoyed returning to Macau, adding that she feels excited whenever she visits the city and hopes the team can achieve a positive result in the tournament.
Team captain Gong Xiangyu speaks to the media at the entrance to the Galaxy International Convention Centre in Cotai yesterday ahead of the four-day “Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) – Finals Macao 2026 presented by Galaxy Entertainment Group” slated to start tomorrow at the Macao East Asian Games Dome. – Photo: Khalel Vallo
