Japan has secured the inaugural semifinal position at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship, hosted in Thailand. During the initial quarterfinal held in Bangkok on Wednesday, the Japanese squad narrowly defeated a resilient Netherlands team in a grueling five-set battle. This marks Japan’s first appearance in the World Championship semifinals since 2010, a year they clinched a bronze medal on home soil. Their next adversary will be determined by Thursday’s quarterfinal clash featuring the USA and Turkiye.
The match saw the Netherlands take the lead on two occasions, but Japan consistently rallied, forcing the contest into a decisive fifth set. Even during the tie-breaker, the European team established a three-point advantage, yet they were unable to maintain it. In a tense finish, Japan mounted a full comeback, culminating in captain Mayu Ishikawa delivering the winning point to secure a 3-2 victory (20-25, 25-20, 22-25, 25-12, 15-12).
Japan`s offensive prowess was a key factor, generating 75 points compared to the Netherlands` 61. Opposite hitter Yukiko Wada was particularly outstanding, scoring a match-high 27 points, which included four of Japan`s seven aces. Captain and outside hitter Mayu Ishikawa also delivered a strong performance with 25 points, seven of which came in the crucial tie-breaker. Her contributions included two kill blocks and an ace. Fellow outside hitter Yoshino Sato contributed 13 points, all from attacks, while middle blocker Airi Miyabe achieved double-digit scoring with 10 points, including two aces and a block.
“Just like every other match, this was incredibly challenging, but we maintained our focus, winning point by point. We genuinely love playing volleyball, and that passion has been a significant part of our success,” Wada shared. She added, “We truly appreciate the immense support from the crowd. Hearing the fans celebrate every point invigorates us, making us feel their presence and boosting our motivation and energy on the court.”
The Netherlands exhibited slightly better discipline with fewer unforced errors (22 vs. Japan’s 25) and significantly outshone Japan in net defense, executing 11 kill blocks compared to Japan`s three. Middle blocker Eline Timmerman was responsible for an impressive six of these blocks, along with two aces and a 59% attack success rate, accumulating 18 points. The team`s leading scorer was 22-year-old opposite Elles Dambrink, who tallied 19 points, all from attacks. Outside hitters Marrit Jasper and captain Nika Daalderop contributed 13 and 12 points respectively. Another 22-year-old, middle blocker Britte Stuut, also secured 12 points.
“While we are a relatively new team, we already feel a strong bond. We fought until the very end. Regrettably, Japan proved to be the stronger side on this occasion,” stated Daalderop. She further remarked, “Frankly, I’m not particularly thrilled at this moment, but looking ahead, this group undeniably possesses considerable potential.”
The upcoming quarterfinal match, scheduled for Wednesday in Bangkok, will feature Italy competing against Poland at 20:30 local time (13:30 UTC).
Finley Blackwood