The USA, with a completely different lineup Thursday than the one it had in a victory over Thailand on Wednesday, bolted to a one-set lead over China.
But China rallied for a 23-25, 25-23, 25-22, 25-19 victory in Volleyball Nations League play in Rio de Janeiro.
China’s Li Yingying led with 20 kills and 11 digs as her team took an important step in qualifying for the Paris Olympics.
Danielle Cuttino lead the USA with 16 kills, two blocks and an ace.