Competition identity
The rally adds a point to a set
Indoor volleyball uses rally scoring: the rally winner earns a point, whether or not that team served. A set score therefore changes one rally at a time. The match score counts completed sets, which is a separate layer of information.
A television graphic can show one side leading two sets to one while trailing in the current set. Both statements can be correct. Begin by identifying the set counter and the active point score before interpreting the match situation.
Twenty-five needs a two-point lead
Under the FIVB basic rules, the first four sets use a target of 25 points and require a two-point advantage. A score of 24–24 therefore does not make the next rally an automatic set winner. The lead must reach the required margin.
Consider a hypothetical sequence from 24–24: one side leads 25–24, the other levels at 25–25, then two more rallies produce 27–25. The set is decided only when the target and margin are both satisfied. The score continuing beyond 25 is expected under the rules.
The fifth set has a shorter target
A deciding fifth set uses a target of 15, again with a two-point winning margin. A graphic at 14–14 in that set has the same margin issue as 24–24 in an earlier set, but it belongs to a different target.
Do not assume the operator entered the wrong score because the final set is shorter. Equally, reaching 15 at 15–14 does not by itself end the set. Look for the two-point advantage.
The match is based on sets
FIVB’s standard match format is best of five sets. A team winning three sets wins that match. The accumulated rally points across all sets are not substituted for that set result.
For a hypothetical example, a team can lose two sets by large point margins and win three close sets. Its total rally-point count might be lower, yet it has won the match by three sets to two. Each completed set is the unit that moves the match score.
Keep indoor and other formats distinct
This explanation concerns the standard indoor rules. Beach volleyball, youth formats and particular competition arrangements should not inherit every number without checking the relevant regulations. The sport label and event matter.
For a replay, include the match and set you want. A short fifth-set highlight and a full five-set programme have very different scopes. The official match result tells you which sets occurred; a generic volleyball logo cannot establish what any subscription includes.
Questions answered
Does the next point at 24–24 always win the set?
No. The winner must achieve a two-point lead.
Why can a fifth set end at a different target?
The standard deciding set is played to 15 rather than 25, still with a two-point margin.
Does the side with more rally points across the match necessarily win?
No. The match is decided by sets won.
Sources & further reading
Official references for the subjects discussed. Service terms and device software can change.