Maldives defeated Kyrgyzstan 3–1 in a competitive match on Tuesday to finish top of the standings at the Asian Central Zone Women’s Volleyball Championship (CAVA) in Male'.

Kyrgyzstan took the opening set 25–15, but Maldives responded strongly to win the next three sets 25–23, 25–19 and 25–22.

Despite a strong challenge from Kyrgyzstan, the Maldivian team held its nerve in the closing stages of each set to secure the victory.

The win means Maldives finished the round-robin stage with nine points from three matches, placing them first in the standings. Kyrgyzstan ended the group stage in second place with six points.

Afghanistan moved up to third place after defeating Bangladesh 3–1. The set scores were 25–20, 25–21, 21–25 and 25–16.

Maldives will face Bangladesh in the semi-finals on Wednesday evening, while Kyrgyzstan will play Afghanistan in the other semi-final later that night.

The bronze medal match will be played on Thursday evening, followed by the final to decide the championship.