The 2025 FIVB Women`s World Championship officially kicked off in Thailand with an exciting array of matches, seeing several teams secure their first victories. Here’s a summary of the opening day`s action:
Argentina Triumphs Over Czechia
Argentina secured the inaugural victory of the 2025 FIVB Women`s World Championship in Thailand. In a Pool D match held in Nakhon Ratchasima, Argentina overcame Czechia 3-1 (18-25, 25-23, 25-17, 26-24) after initially trailing by a set. Their success largely stemmed from capitalizing on Czechia`s numerous unforced errors. The South American squad clinched a dramatic fourth set, rallying from a 23-21 deficit with a decisive 5-1 run.
France Marks Return with Win Against Puerto Rico
France marked their return to the Women`s World Championship after a 51-year absence with a 3-1 (25-22, 25-18, 21-25, 25-14) victory over Puerto Rico in their opening Pool C match in Chiang Mai. Although committing more unforced errors, France dominated their NORCECA opponents in all other scoring categories, highlighted by Ndiaye`s five aces.
Belgium Dominates Cuba with Strong Blocking
Belgium initiated their 2025 campaign with a dominant 3-0 (25-23, 25-14, 25-11) straight-sets win against Cuba in Phuket. The key to their victory was an overwhelming blocking performance, registering 14 kill blocks compared to Cuba`s mere two. The European squad also demonstrated superior offense with 42 spike kills against 34 and fewer unforced errors (9-16).
Netherlands Wins First Five-Set Battle Against Sweden
The first five-set thriller of the tournament saw the Netherlands defeat World Championship debutants Sweden 3-2 (25-27, 25-11, 25-21, 21-25, 15-9) in a Pool A clash in Bangkok. The Dutch victory was significantly influenced by their cleaner play, committing only 20 unforced errors compared to Sweden`s 32. They also held an advantage in offense and slightly in blocking.
Brazil Sweeps Greece to Start Strong
Brazil, eyeing their inaugural FIVB Women`s World Championship title, commenced their 2025 journey with a dominant 3-0 (25-18, 25-15, 25-16) sweep over Greece in Chiang Mai. The South American powerhouse controlled the Pool C match from the outset, securing a strong start to their tournament.
USA Secures Victory Led by Skinner Sisters
The United States, a formidable volleyball powerhouse, began their 2025 World Championship quest with a 3-1 (25-23, 17-25, 25-22, 25-14) victory against tenacious newcomers Slovenia in Nakhon Ratchasima. The Skinner sisters, Avery and Madison, delivered strong performances, proving crucial in securing USA`s Pool D win.
Italy Extends Winning Streak Against Slovakia
Olympic champions and FIVB World Ranking leaders Italy extended their remarkable winning streak by securing a commanding 3-0 (25-20, 25-14, 25-17) victory over World Championship debutants Slovakia in Phuket. Their experience and superior play shone through in their opening Pool B match, maintaining their unstoppable form.
Host Nation Thailand Triumphs Over Egypt
The host nation, Thailand, concluded the opening day with a celebratory 3-1 (25-15, 23-25, 25-15, 25-11) victory against Egypt in Bangkok. Despite facing some challenges, the reigning Asian champions, backed by a fervent home crowd at Huamark Indoor Stadium and exceptional blocking, secured their first win in Pool A.
Oliver Wrenwick 
Finley Blackwood