Colombo, Sri Lanka – Kyrgyzstan captured their first-ever CAVA Women’s U19 Volleyball Championship crown after defeating Nepal in a dramatic five-set final, 22–25, 25–20, 25–21, 13–25, 15–11, at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
The victory capped an exciting week of competition showcasing the rising stars of Central and South Asian volleyball.
The packed arena of over 2,000 spectators witnessed a thrilling contest filled with skill, determination, and teamwork as both sides fought passionately for continental glory.
Just when Kyrgyzstan appeared to be in control with a 2-1 match advantage, Nepal stormed back in the fourth set with an impressive display of offense led by Rebika Lama Tamang and Anjila Pradhan, claiming the set 25–13 to force a decider.
When it mattered most in the fifth set, Kyrgyzstan turned to Perizat Aitbekova’s steady hands at the net and Raiana Baimanova’s dependable defense before inspirational captain Saikal Amirakulova with two final kills to secure the gold.
“The girls played with heart and teamwork,” Kyrgyzstan Head Coach Nurgiza Masimova said. “Even when we lost the first and fourth sets, they stayed calm and believed in each other. This victory means a lot for our volleyball development in Kyrgyzstan.”
Nepal started the match in commanding fashion, with captain Jenisaha Bishwakarma and opposite hitter Mina Sunar firing powerful spikes and well-placed serves to secure the opening set 25–22.
But Kyrgyzstan, led by Amirakulova, responded strongly in the second set. Their well-organized blocking and precise setting from Aitbekova helped them level the match 25–20 before maintaining the momentum to take the third set 25–21.
In the tiebreaker, Kyrgyzstan held their nerve.
Nepal’s Head Coach Kumar Rai also expressed pride in his team’s performance despite narrowly missing the gold medal.
“We came close, but today Kyrgyzstan was better in the final moments,” he said. “Our players have gained valuable experience, and this will motivate them to come back stronger.”
Host nation Sri Lanka delighted home fans by winning the bronze medal match in style, sweeping Maldives, 25–6, 25–11, 25–10)
Outside hitter L.K.M. Wijerathna led the charge with 12 points and consistent all-round performance. Sri Lanka dominated in attack and serve, while Maldives showed determination and spirit despite their younger and less experienced lineup.
“Our girls worked very hard and showed great improvement match by match,” Sri Lanka Head Coach Charles Thilakarathna said. “Finishing on the podium in front of our home crowd is a proud moment for us. This experience will give our young players the confidence to aim higher in future CAVA and AVC competitions.”
Amirakulova was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2025 tournament.
Amirakulova, also the Best Middle Mlocker, led a standout group of athletes recognized for their performances. Other honorees included Nepal’s Jenisaha Bishwakarma and Sri Lanka’s L.K.M. Wijerathna as Best Outside Hitters; Nepal’s Rebika Lama Tamang as the other Best Middle Blocker; Kyrgyzstan’s Perizat Aitbekova as Best Settter; Kyrgyzstan’s Raiana Baimanova as Best Opposite Spiker; and Nepal’s Anjila Pradhan as Best Libero.
CAVA President Mohamed Latheef congratulated all participating teams for their excellent performances and the strong spirit of friendship displayed throughout the championship.
“The level of play we witnessed, especially in the final, was extraordinary,” he said. “I sincerely congratulate the champions Kyrgyzstan, and all teams for their dedication and sportsmanship.”
Presiding over the awarding ceremony, Sri Lanka Volleyball Federation President Sajeewa Medawatte extended his congratulations to all participating teams and thanked CAVA for entrusting Sri Lanka with hosting rights.
“We are proud to host this wonderful event,” he said. “It has inspired many young Sri Lankans and strengthened regional volleyball cooperation.”
The tournament concluded with a vibrant closing ceremony, where the young champions of Kyrgyzstan lifted the trophy to loud cheers, marking a proud and emotional end to an inspiring week of volleyball.