Dushanbe, Tajikistan, July 8, 2025 – The curtains fell on the CAVA Girls’ U16 Volleyball Championship with a spectacular showcase of youth talent, fierce competition and regional camaraderie. Over seven vibrant days, teams from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and host nation Tajikistan battled for top honors in what proved to be a historic sporting milestone for Central Asia, especially for Tajikistan, proudly hosting its first-ever international volleyball tournament.
Kazakhstan Reign Supreme with Gold Medal Glory
The grand finale on July 7 saw volleyball powerhouses Kazakhstan outclass Uzbekistan with an authoritative 3–0 win in the championship match. With set scores of 25–17, 25–18, and 25–14, Kazakhstan showcased their dominance from the first serve to the final spike.
Led by the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, Abitay Assyly, Kazakhstan executed a seamless blend of technical finesse and mental tenacity.
The final, held at the Olympic Palace in Dushanbe, drew a crowd of 250 spectators, electrified by the rhythm of quick attacks and resilient digs. With Vagner Margarita and Kokina Ulyana also featuring in the championship’s Dream Team, Kazakhstan’s roster dazzled from every corner of the court.
Kyrgyzstan Earn Bronze with Grit and Passion
On July 6, the bronze medal match brought thrilling action as Kyrgyzstan defeated Tajikistan 3–0 to seal third place. While the scores 25–13, 25–12, 25–17 reflected a strong showing by Kyrgyzstan, the hosts were equally praised for their fighting spirit and hospitality.
Setter Maksutova Asylzat and libero Seiitbekova Asema of Kyrgyzstan earned spots in the Dream Team thanks to their consistent performances throughout the tournament. The match was a celebration of growth and promise for Tajikistan’s volleyball scene, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s sporting journey.
Spotlight on Emerging Stars
The championship didn’t just crown winners – it launched stars. Apart from MVP Assyly, Uzbekistan’s Egamberdieva Saodat and Asliddinova Malika added flair and power to the Dream Team lineup, winning admirers with their agility and sharp gameplay.
As CAVA President Mohamed Latheef emphasized in his address, the event was more than a competition – it was a symbol of unity, development, and opportunity. “This tournament will be remembered and celebrated for years to come,” he stated, thanking the Tajikistan Volleyball Federation for its exceptional organization.
Final Rankings & Dream Team Revealed
As the championship wrapped up on July 7 in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, the tournament not only crowned its winners but also celebrated the top individual talents and team achievements that lit up the courts all week.
The 2025 CAVA Girls’ U16 Volleyball Championship concluded with Kazakhstan proudly standing atop the final team rankings. Dominating the tournament with consistent performances and unmatched teamwork, Kazakhstan secured the championship title and the gold medal.
Uzbekistan followed as the runner-up, battling fiercely but falling short in the final showdown. Kyrgyzstan claimed third place, defeating host nation Tajikistan in the bronze medal match with a commanding 3–0 performance. Despite finishing fourth, Tajikistan earned high praise for its commendable effort and for successfully hosting the region’s first international volleyball event – a proud moment in its sporting history.
Equally exciting was the announcement of the CAVA Girls’ U16 Dream Team, spotlighting the standout athletes of the championship. Kazakhstan’s Kokina Ulyana and Uzbekistan’s Egamberdieva Saodat were honored as top middle blockers for their powerful net play and blocking prowess.
The outside hitter duo featured Abitay Assyly of Kazakhstan – who also received the coveted MVP award – and Asliddinova Malika from Uzbekistan, both known for their relentless attacks and defensive agility. On the opposite spiker role, Vagner Margarita from Kazakhstan dazzled with her finishing precision.
The setter position was claimed by Maksutova Asylzat of Kyrgyzstan, recognized for orchestrating her team’s offense with tactical brilliance, while Seiitbekova Asema, also from Kyrgyzstan, showcased exceptional skills in her libero duty, covering ground with sharp anticipation and unwavering resolve. Together, these players formed a constellation of rising volleyball stars who gave fans a glimpse of the region’s bright athletic future.
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