The 22nd Asian Senior Women’s Volleyball Championship commenced with some gripping action at the 5,000-seater Chartchai Hall. Japan kicked off their title defense with an exceptional 3-0 (25-18, 25-16, 25-22) victory against Iran in a preliminary Pool B match on Wednesday. Okumu Oba Fuyumi Hawi led the scoring for Japan with 14 points, including 12 attacks and 2 blocks. On the other side, Khalili Chermahini Fatemeh from Iran secured 12 points.
Japan’s head coach, Takayuki Kaneko, praised Iran’s skills, saying, “Iran is a good team with high potential players. Their blocking was great, and we had to adjust our game accordingly. We are looking forward to our next match against India.”
In another captivating match, Vietnam staged an incredible comeback against Korea to secure a 3-2 (25-22, 25-19, 23-25, 17-25, 13-15) win. The victory was especially shocking given that Korea, the bronze medalists of the 2019 edition, are currently ranked 35th in the world.
Thailand also made headlines by sweeping Australia 3-0 (25-14, 25-16, 25-22) in a preliminary Pool A clash. Thai players Sasipapron Janthawisut and Chatchu-on Moksri each contributed 9 points, while Rebecca Redgen was the high scorer for Australia with 10 points.
In other matches of the day, China overwhelmed Hong Kong, Kazakhstan outplayed the Philippines in a five-set thriller, and Chinese Taipei defeated Uzbekistan to round off an enthralling day of volleyball action.
