Thailand off to winning start at worlds

>>Thailand secured their first victory at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women's World Championship after beating Egypt 3-1 at Bangkok's Indoor Stadium on Friday night.

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The reigning Asian champions had moments of difficulty against the African side, but counted on the support of the fans that packed stadium and a strong blocking performance to prevail 25-15, 23-25, 25-15, 25-11 in Pool A.

Opposite spiker Pimpichaya Kokram was Thailand's top scorer in the match, producing 19 points (17 kills, two blocks). Middle blocker Thatdao Nuekjang led the Thais in blocks with four, tallying 16 points (11 kills, four blocks, one ace), two more than outside hitter Chatchu-On Moksri.

Outside hitter Nada Ahmed Houssameldein led Egypt's attack with 14 points while opposite Toqaallah Eassa had 12 points.

"Today was a great experience for our team," said Chatchu-On. "It was a big surprise for us that we got so many blocks, and we want to keep it going for the next matches alongside the other good things we did. But I think we can play better than we did today, and we'll work to improve on some details for the next matches."

Coach Kiattipong Radchatagriengkai admitted the match was far from easy and his team still need to improve in many areas of the game.