China players celebrate during their semifinal win against Iran at the AVC Women's Volleyball Continental Championship in Tianjin, China, Aug. 29, 2026. (Photo: Xinhua)

China swept Iran 3-0 (25-22, 25-12, 25-19) in the semifinals of the Asian Women's Volleyball Championship on Saturday, setting up a final against Thailand and securing direct qualification for the 2027 Women's Volleyball World Cup.

China topped Group A without dropping a set before beating Vietnam in straight sets in Friday's quarterfinals. Iran, the Group A runner-up, rallied to beat Indonesia 3-1 and reach the semifinals for the first time.

Although Iran had lost 3-0 to China in the group stage, it showed marked improvement and stayed within 23-21 in the opening set. Outside hitter Wu Mengjie then scored two crucial points to help China close out the set.

After a competitive start to the second set, China pulled away to take a 19-10 lead and extended the advantage to 22-12 before closing out the set 25-12.

China raced to a 6-0 lead in the third set, but Iran fought back to cut the deficit to 20-18. China kept its composure, however, and held off the comeback attempt to seal the victory.

Yang Shuming (L) of China goes for a spike during the semifinal against Iran. (Photo: Xinhua)

The host dominated at the net, outblocking Iran 13-2, and also held a 52-40 advantage in kills. Zhuang Yushan scored a game-high 17 points, followed by Wu with 12. Fatemeh Khalili and Ayda Valinezhad led Iran with 11 points apiece.

"We have made thorough preparations for this match, technically our overall performance was solid," China head coach Zhao Yong said after the match.

"I believe we have not fully shown our true strength on court. We need to stay confident in ourselves and our teammates, and we will gradually gain the upper hand as the match goes on," he added.

Earlier on Saturday, Thailand stunned Japan 3-1 in the other semifinal to secure a World Cup berth.

The final will take place Sunday, with the winner also securing qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Asked about the final, Zhao said: "Both sides are hungry for victory going into the final. We must stay confident, bring out our strengths and go all-out for the win."