SHAOXING, China, Dec. 7 (Xinhua) -- Turkish side Eczacibasi Vitra Istanbul came from one set down to defeat Praia Clube of Brazil 3-1 (25-27, 25-21, 25-11, 25-21) at the FIVB Volleyball Women's Club World Championship 2018 here on Friday, ensuring that they finished top of the tournament's Pool B.
The 2018 CEV Cup champions finished their group campaign with three straight wins, advancing to the semifinals having only dropped one set. Despite their loss on Friday, Praia Clube secured Pool B's other semifinal place after winning their two other group matches.
"We played a regular match, except the second part of the first set when we lost control," said Eczacibasi head coach Marco Aurelio Motta. "We did not have a spectacular performance but we played okay after that."
Eczacibasi captain Jordan Larson led the game's scoresheet with 23 points from 18 spikes, three blocks and two services. Teammate Tijana Boskovic added 17 points.
"We came out strong to start the match," said Larson. "In the first set we let the lead slip away, but I am very proud of my team for continuing to fight and push through the match. I am excited for the semifinals tomorrow."
Eczacibasi will face 2018 South American club champions Minas Tenis Clube on Saturday, while Praia Clube take on tournament favorites and reigning champions VakifBank Istanbul.
Earlier in the day, Asian club champions Supreme Chonburi of Thailand beat Altay Volleyball Club of Kazakhstan 3-1 (25-23, 25-20, 17-25, 25-17) to take third in Pool B, consigning Altay to last place after the Kazakh side lost all three of their matches.
