The 2023 Asian Senior Men’s Volleyball Championship’s group stage reached its climax with the conclusion of the final five games.
In a scintillating face-off, Iran showcased their formidable prowess by overpowering Iraq in a four-set match, sealing the win with scores of 19-25, 25-12, 25-15, and 25-14.
Meanwhile, Pakistan met its match in Korea, enduring a 1-3 defeat in the preliminary Pool F game. Both teams, fresh from their respective wins against Bangladesh, took to the court oozing confidence. Heo Subong’s outstanding 26-point contribution played a pivotal role for Korea, while Pakistan’s Murad Khan didn’t fall far behind, accumulating 23 points. Nevertheless, Pakistan clinched a spot in the next round as Pool F’s second team, accumulating 3 points. On the other hand, Korea, with two successive wins, reigned supreme in Pool F with 6 points.
Thailand achieved a significant victory as they dismantled Uzbekistan in a thrilling three-set match with scores of 25-17, 25-20, and 25-16. Napadet Bhinijdee spearheaded Thailand’s offense with 5 points, while Yuldashev Umidjon mustered 3 points in a valiant effort for Uzbekistan.
Earlier in the day, China continued their winning streak, emerging victorious in a nail-biting 5-set match against Kazakhstan, thereby clinching the top spot in Pool C.
In another Pool C matchup, India triumphed over Afghanistan 3-1, ensuring their progression to the next round with a second-place finish in the group.