In Pool A of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship in Bangkok, host nation Thailand and European contenders Netherlands secured victories.
Playing in front of a packed Huamark Indoor Stadium, Thailand delighted their home supporters by defeating Egypt 3-1 (25-15, 23-25, 25-15, 25-11). Despite dropping the second set, the Asian champions bounced back with powerful blocking and steady defense to seal their first win of the tournament.
Pimpichaya Kokram led the Thai scoring with 19 points, while Thatdao Nuekjang dominated at the net with four blocks as part of her 16-point contribution. Outside hitter Chatchu-On Moksri added 14 points and praised the team’s effort:
“The atmosphere was amazing, and the blocks really gave us confidence. We’re happy with this start, but we know there’s room to play even better.”
Egypt, making their first World Championship appearance since 2006, celebrated taking a set from the hosts. Nada Meawad stood out with 14 points, while opposite Tokka Eassa added 12. “We fought for every point,” Meawad said. “Now we just need to keep that energy from the very first serve.”
In the day’s other Pool A clash, the Netherlands overcame a tough challenge from Sweden, pulling through in a dramatic five-set duel, 3-2 (25-27, 25-11, 25-21, 21-25, 15-9).
The Dutch side, boosted by the return of middle blocker Eline Timmerman and outside hitter Marrit Jasper, recovered strongly after losing the opening set. Elles Dambrink proved decisive in the tiebreak, helping the team secure their first win.
“A first World Championship match is always tough,” Dambrink said. “We stayed together as a team, and that helped us finish strong.”
Sweden, led by the ever-dangerous Isabelle Haak (31 pts), kept the pressure on with sharp attacking and serving, but the Netherlands’ composure in the decisive moments proved too much to overcome.
With victories on day one, Thailand and the Netherlands sit at the top of Pool A, while Sweden and Egypt remain in search of their first wins. The tournament continues on Sunday, with the Netherlands meeting Egypt and Thailand facing Sweden in front of another enthusiastic Bangkok crowd.
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