China swept Japan in a three-set thriller 25-20, 25-23, 25-22 in the 2022 Asian Men’s Volleyball Confederation Cup final on Sunday in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, claiming the championship for the second time in a decade. Photo: Wang Teng/Xinhua

China’s ace Zhang Jingyin (first from left) spikes during the final. He was awarded the Most Valuable Player of the tournament and named one of the Best Outside Spikers. Photo: Wang Teng/Xinhua

China’s hitter Yu Yuantai (first from the left) and outside blocker Zhang Zhejia (second from the left) defend against a Japanese offensive. Photo: Asian Volleyball Confederation

Zhang Jingyin (left) and Zhang Zhejia high five after scoring during the final. Zhang Zhejia and his teammate Peng Shikun were named the Best Middle Blockers. Photo: Asian Volleyball Confederation

Wu Sheng, a former Chinese national men’s volleyball player, was appointed as head coach of the men’s team in October 2020. Photo: Xinhua

China’s team celebrate after winning the 2022 AVC Cup final against Japan on Sunday. The Chinese men’s team first won the AVC champion in 2012 after beating Iran 3-1 in Vinh Yen, Vietnam. Photo: Asian Volleyball Confederation

A victorious Chinese team after winning Sunday’s 2022 AVC Cup final against Japan. It is also China’s sixth straight victory after defeating Bahrain, Chinese Taipei, Pakistan, Iran and South Korea. Photo: Wang Teng/Xinhua

China will next participate in the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, held in Poland and Slovenia from Aug. 26 to Sep. 11. Photo: Asian Volleyball Confederation