Nepal fix semi-final date with Iran

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Aug. 6: Nepal secured a spot in the semi-finals against Iran at the CAVA Women’s Volleyball Nations League. Nepal, a two-time champion, comfortably defeated Maldives on Monday, finishing as the league’s runner-up. With nine points from three wins and one loss out of four matches, Nepal is set to face third-placed Iran, who has seven points on the table, in a rematch.

The other semi-final will also be a rematch between reigning champions India and fourth-ranked Sri Lanka. India maintained its top position after a straight-set victory over Sri Lanka in the first match of the day.

In the last match of the league stage held at the covered hall of Dasarath Rangasala, Nepal dominated Maldives, winning the first set 25-8. Coach Jagadish Bhatta took the opportunity to field the benchwarmers from the second set. The Maldives showed some competitiveness, but ultimately lost the second set 19-25 and the third 18-25.

Despite their efforts, the Maldives returned home without any wins. 

Earlier in the afternoon match, India defeated Sri Lanka with scores of 25-13, 25-21, and 25-20. With three wins and one loss, India topped the table with 10 points, while Sri Lanka finished fourth with four points.

The first semi-final match will be between India and Sri Lanka, while the second semi-final match will be between Nepal and Iran on Tuesday.