Japan – Korea
In the second semifinal match, Korea surged to an early lead as Japan collapsed in their reception. Korean hitter Lee Hanbi attacked ferociously from the left side and the Japanese blockers were nowhere to be found. Kang Sohwi also proved her use in offense, executing at quick kill in the middle.
Japan retaliated as Sarina Koga, known for her strong, piercing attacks, varied the speed of her backrow kills to find unmanned spots in the opponents’ court. Misaki Shirai tried to operate at the right side of Japan’s offense but with these successes later came misfires serves.
Once the Japanese girls got their groove back to stage a tight race, an unforgettable running set from Airi Tahara enabled Sarina Koga to fire away from her strongest spot, which helped close the first set to Japan’s favour.
The Japanese team improved their performance from the service area in the second set. They also enbled Yurika Kono to operate at the middle. Korea’s Kang Sohwi was slowly building her momentum and consistency in her spikes, but the Japanese blockers stepped up in defence. Nanaka Sakamoto and Sarina Koga made for a formidable wall to allow Japan to seize the second set
In the third set, Korea failed to maintain the superb defence they displayed in the opener. They likewise committed misfired attacks that wasted precious points. Japan now enjoyed the luxury of their service aces. Sarina Koga sent attacks from the left wing and the backline that went barging into the Korean court. She scored a total of 16 points in the match.
Japan will face host China in the championship match on Saturday, October 20 at 17:00h.
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