China defeats New Zealand for 2nd straight win at Asian volleyball championship

China maintained its perfect start to the Asian Men's Volleyball Championship with a 3-0 victory over New Zealand on Monday, securing a place in the quarterfinals with one pool match remaining.

China took the opening set 25-17 before New Zealand offered a sterner challenge in the second. China held firm to prevail 25-22 and wrapped up the match by taking the third set 25-18.

Returning outside hitter Zhang Jingyin contributed 11 points, including nine attacks, one block and one ace. He has collected 23 points in China's first two matches.

Zhang said after the match that he was still working his way back into form following a lengthy absence from competition.

The result left China with two wins and six points without dropping a set. Iran has an identical win-loss record and points tally but leads Pool B on points ratio, with China sitting second.

India and New Zealand remain winless after two matches, ensuring China and Iran will occupy the pool's top two places and advance to the knockout stage.

In another match completed earlier on Monday, Australia swept Oman 3-0 in Pool A, winning 25-18, 25-14, 25-22 for its second straight victory.

The 12 participating teams are divided into three pools, with the top two from each group and the two best third-placed sides advancing to the quarterfinals. The champion will earn Asia's first men's volleyball berth at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, while the three medalists will qualify for the 2027 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Cup.

China will face Iran on Wednesday, with top spot in Pool B at stake.