Japan and Iran continued their unbeaten runs at the AVC Men’s Volleyball Asian Championship, while Chinese Taipei claimed their first victory of the tournament.
Hosts Japan made light work of Bahrain in Pool A, winning in straight sets at Kitakyushu City Gymnasium. Ran Takahashi led the way with 19 points, while captain Yuki Ishikawa added 12 as Japan improved to 2-0.
Iran also collected a second successive victory, overcoming India in three sets in Pool B. Poriya Khanzadeh topped the scoring with 20 points, while Mohammad Valizadeh and Ali Hajipour contributed 11 each.
In Pool C, Chinese Taipei earned their first win by sweeping Qatar. Captain Chang Yu-Sheng produced a strong all-round performance with 20 points, including six blocks, while Wen Yi-Kai added 15.
The championship also forms part of the qualification pathway for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games and the 2027 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Cup.
Results: Japan 3-0 Bahrain (25-15, 25-15, 25-23); Iran 3-0 India (25-20, 28-26, 25-18); Chinese Taipei 3-0 Qatar (25-19, 25-22, 28-26).