Korea clinched their first Volleyball Nations League victory in almost three years on Sunday, triumphing over Thailand in Rio de Janeiro. The hosts Brazil and the United States also secured wins on the final day of the first week of the Preliminary Phase.
Playing at the Maracanãzinho stadium, Korea defeated Thailand 3-1 (25-19, 23-25, 25-16, 25-18), marking their first VNL victory since June 14, 2021. This win snapped a 30-match losing streak in the tournament, spanning the 2022 and 2023 editions.
Outside hitter So-Hwi Kang led Korea with 22 points, supported by Jeong-Ah Park and Ji-Yun Jeong, who added 16 points each. Thailand’s Chatchu-On Moksri and Wipawee Srithong scored 17 and 15 points respectively.
Brazil finished the week undefeated, defeating Serbia 3-0 (25-15, 25-19, 25-19). Gabriela ‘Gabi’ Guimarães led Brazil with 15. Serbia’s Ana Bjelica and Vanja Ivanović each scored nine points.
The United States bounced back with a 3-0 (25-23, 25-20, 25-18) win over the Dominican Republic. Avery Skinner and Chiaka Ogbogu combined for 30 points.
Teams now have a week off before resuming play from May 28 to June 2, with matches in Macau and Arlington.
