The Thai national team recorded an impressive 16 blocks in their dominant four-set victory over Egypt in Bangkok.
Smiling Thai players celebrate their triumph in front of enthusiastic home fans.
The inaugural day of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship concluded with a jubilant celebration in Bangkok, Thailand’s capital. The host nation’s team secured their first tournament victory by overcoming Egypt in a compelling opening match.
Despite encountering challenging moments against their African adversaries, the reigning Asian champions capitalized on the fervent support from the packed Huamark Indoor Stadium and an exceptional blocking performance. They triumphed with a 3-1 score (25-15, 23-25, 25-15, 25-11), marking a triumphant start in Pool A.
Internationally recognized for their defensive skills, Thailand showcased a formidable presence at the net. They significantly outperformed Egypt in both kills (56 to 37) and blocks (16 to 9). The Asian squad also maintained an edge in aces (four to three) and committed fewer errors (17 to 22).
Opposite hitter Pimpichaya Kokram led Thailand’s scoring efforts, accumulating 19 points (17 kills, two blocks). Middle blocker Thatdao Nuekjang was particularly effective in blocking, contributing four blocks and a total of 16 points (11 kills, four blocks, one ace). Outside hitter Chatchu-On Moksri also added 14 points to the team`s impressive performance.
“Today was a wonderful experience for our team. We were pleasantly surprised by how many blocks we achieved, and we aim to maintain this level, along with our other strong performances, in upcoming matches. However, I believe we can play even better, and we will diligently work on refining certain aspects for our next games.”
Returning to the World Championship stage for the first time since 2006, the Egyptian team expressed pride in having taken a set from the strong home team in their opening fixture. Outside hitter Nada Meawad, a distinguished beach volleyball Olympian, spearheaded Egypt’s efforts with 14 points (ten kills, two blocks, two aces), surpassing opposite Tokka Eassa by two points.
“I am proud of our determination to fight for every point today, but there are definitely areas where we need to improve. We started slowly, which is incredibly difficult against a team of this caliber. We must begin with aggression and sustain it throughout the game. We will collaborate with our coaches to address what didn’t go well and return stronger.”
With the three points secured, Thailand concluded the day at the top of Pool A standings. In the day’s other match, the Netherlands and Sweden split points, with the Dutch emerging victorious 3-2 (25-27, 25-11, 25-21, 21-25, 15-9).
The second round of matches on Sunday will feature the Netherlands and Egypt playing first, scheduled for 17:00 local time (10:00 GMT). Thailand and Sweden will then close the day’s play at 20:30 local time (13:30 GMT).
Jasper Thornfield 
Oliver Wrenwick