Both Thailand and the Netherlands have successfully advanced from Pool A to the elimination rounds of the tournament.
Supported by an enthusiastic home crowd in Bangkok, Thailand delivered a commanding performance against Sweden on Sunday, achieving their primary objective at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship by qualifying for the knockout stages.
The reigning Asian champions displayed significantly more consistent play compared to their opening match against Egypt. They defeated the Europeans in straight sets (25-18, 25-20, 25-22) at the Huamark Indoor Stadium, thus confirming their progression to the Round of 16.
Earlier that Sunday, the Netherlands also secured their second victory of the tournament by sweeping Egypt 3-0 (25-15, 25-13, 25-13). With six points, Thailand is qualified, and the Dutch, with five points, also advanced. Sweden, with one point, and Egypt, with none, are now out of contention.
Thai star opposite hitter Pimpichaya Kokram was instrumental in her team`s victory, leading their offense with an impressive 23 points (20 kills, two aces, one block). Middle blocker Thatdao Nuekjang also reached double digits with 11 points (ten kills, one block).
“We prepared exceptionally well for this match, understood our tasks, and executed the game plan flawlessly. Playing with such joy in front of our incredible fans was a huge boost. Their energy truly drives us.” – Pimpichaya Kokram
Despite a standout performance from Swedish star opposite Isabelle Haak, who led all scorers with 25 points (24 kills, one block), her efforts were not enough to secure her country`s first-ever World Championship win.
“It has been an incredible experience for us to participate in our first World Championship. Unfortunately, the result wasn’t in our favor today, but Thailand played exceptionally well. I believe we showed great passion in these initial two matches, and we intend to carry that intensity into our next game.” – Anna Haak
Thailand’s dynamic offensive strategy proved too potent for Sweden, resulting in a 14-point advantage in kills (53-39). Thailand also served five aces compared to Sweden`s two, though the Europeans had more blocks, seven to Thailand’s four.
Upcoming Matches
The group stage will conclude for these four teams on Tuesday. Sweden is scheduled to face Egypt at 17:00 local time (10:00 GMT), while Thailand and the Netherlands will compete for the top spot in the pool at 20:30 local time (13:30 GMT).
Oliver Wrenwick 
Jasper Thornfield