The three-time world champion Japanese team secured a victory in the thrilling “Asian Derby,” held on the opening day of the Round of 16 at the 2025 FIVB Women`s Volleyball World Championship. By defeating the host nation, Thailand, the Japanese athletes will continue to represent their continent in this prestigious competition.
Despite the overwhelming majority of spectators at the packed Huamark Indoor Stadium in Bangkok actively supporting their opponents, the Japanese squad demonstrated consistent play, achieving a confident 3-0 (25-20, 25-23, 25-23) victory. This result extended their unbeaten streak against their continental rivals to ten matches.
In the quarterfinals, the Japanese team will face the Netherlands. The Dutch also successfully concluded their continental derby on Friday, overcoming two-time defending champions Serbia with a 3-2 (27-25, 26-24, 22-25, 20-25, 15-11) win. Their quarterfinal match is scheduled for Wednesday.
Japan`s captain, Mayu Ishikawa, was the most effective player in the match against Thailand. The 25-year-old outside hitter scored 14 points (13 kills, 1 ace). Middle blocker Haruyo Shimamura, who contributed 12 points (9 kills, 2 aces, 1 block), and opposite Yukiko Wada, who accounted for 11 points (all from kills), also played pivotal roles in the team`s successful performance.
“They are a great team,” Shimamura commented. “We had some really long rallies, and we never gave up, trying to give our best in every point. Today`s victory is very important for us. Our goal here is to win a medal, and we are one step closer. Now we will focus on the next match and try to perform our best again.”
For the Thai national team, the most productive players in their final match of the tournament were outside hitter Chatchu-On Moksri, who scored 12 points (10 kills, 1 block, 1 ace), and opposite Pimpichaya Kokram, who contributed 11 points (9 kills, 2 blocks).
“This was a key match for us, because advancing to the next round would have been a huge achievement,” reflected Thailand`s team captain, Ajcharaporn Kongyot. “Unfortunately, we couldn`t do it, but I am very proud of our team. We supported each other and worked together to play our best. I also want to thank our fans who came here and supported us all these days.”
Match Statistics:
- Japan surpassed Thailand in successful attacks (47 to 40) and aces (four to one).
- Japan also committed fewer errors (20 to 22).
- Thailand, in turn, was stronger at the net, winning the blocking battle 5:2.
Two more Round of 16 matches will take place on Saturday in Bangkok: Olympic champions Italy will play Germany at 17:00 local time (10:00 GMT), and Poland will battle Belgium at 20:30 (13:30 GMT).
Oliver Wrenwick 
Finley Blackwood