The Dutch team staged two impressive comebacks to secure a victory witnessed by a vibrant, full-capacity stadium in Bangkok.
The Netherlands solidify their position as one of the eight pool winners in Thailand.
The Netherlands and host nation Thailand engaged in an intense battle for the leading position in Pool A of the 2025 FIVB Women`s Volleyball World Championship. Following a captivating five-set encounter, it was the European squad that ultimately claimed victory.
Both teams arrived at the final day of Pool A matches in Bangkok undefeated after their initial two games. The Dutch emerged victorious with a 3-2 scoreline (23-25, 25-17, 23-25, 25-10, 16-14), maintaining their perfect record as they advanced to the elimination rounds.
This crucial win propelled the Netherlands past Thailand in the standings. Both teams concluded their pool play with seven points, but the Dutch recorded three victories compared to Thailand`s two. Attention now turns to Wednesday, when both European and Asian teams will discover their opponents for Friday`s Round of 16. The outcome of the Serbia vs. Japan match in Pool H will determine whether the Netherlands faces the loser and Thailand takes on the winner.
In another Pool A fixture, Sweden, already eliminated from contention, defeated Egypt 3-1 (25-18, 26-28, 25-20, 25-16). This win allowed the Swedes to conclude their inaugural World Championship appearance on a positive note.
Dutch captain and outside hitter Nika Daalderop was instrumental in her team`s comeback, delivering a game-high 26 points, including 20 kills and six blocks. Middle blocker Eline Timmerman also made a significant contribution with 14 points, comprising ten kills, three aces, and one block.
“It was an incredibly dynamic match, full of shifts,” commented Timmerman. “We performed exceptionally well in the fourth set, but we understood the tie-breaker would be a different challenge. Thankfully, we stayed composed at the critical moment and executed what was needed to secure the win. We`re still unaware of our next opponent, but finishing first instills great confidence as we head into the knockout stages.”
For Thailand, star opposite Pimpichaya Kokram led the scoring with 20 points (18 kills, two blocks), supported by outside hitter Sasipapron Janthawisut, who contributed 14 points (13 kills, one ace).
“It was a top-tier match,” stated outside hitter Chatchu-On Moksri. “I believe both teams displayed excellent play, and we fought tirelessly until the very end. Our team`s objective was to reach the next round, and I`m pleased we achieved it. Now, our focus is on continued improvement and advancing further. The crowd`s incredible support throughout the tournament means a great deal to us.”
Despite the close final score, the Netherlands demonstrated superiority across all key statistical categories. They outscored Thailand in kills (64 to 55), blocks (15 to seven), and aces (six to four), while also committing fewer errors (25 to 27).
Oliver Wrenwick 
Jasper Thornfield