Thailand exits VNL 2025 following a close defeat against Canada, managing to escape relegation
In a nail-biting finish, Thailand's women's national volleyball team has managed to secure their place in next year's Volleyball Nations League (VNL), despite losing to Canada in a closely contested match.
The team, led by coach Kiattipong Radchatagriengkai, faced pressure after their VNL losses, but they have proven their resilience by securing their spot in the league. The match, which kicked off at 3am Thailand time, saw Thailand start strongly, leading 7-0 in the first set, and eventually winning it 25-17. However, Canada fought back, and the final score was a tight 3-2 in favour of Canada, with a 15-13 finish in the decisive fifth set.
Despite the loss, Thailand's point accumulation over the course of the preliminary phase was enough to keep them above the bottom of the table, ensuring qualification for the next VNL season. They finished the tournament with one win, 11 losses, and a total of six points, maintaining a single-point lead over Korea, who was in the relegation zone at 18th place.
Thailand's success in avoiding relegation can be largely attributed to their slightly better standing compared to other Asian rivals. South Korea, with five points, was relegated instead. The one point lifted Thailand from the bottom of the table to 17th place.
With their VNL spot secured, the team can now regroup and begin preparations for the upcoming VNL campaign. As the Culture Minister vowed to rebuild Buddhist faith after scandals, it remains to be seen how the team will fare in the next season.
Meanwhile, other news in Bangkok includes the city joining a nationwide drug crackdown called "No Drugs No Dealers", and 753 students competing at the 'Chang Noi Games' in Bangkok, organized by the BMA to nurture young Go masters. Elsewhere, Japan experienced 19 earthquakes in one day, and a red weather alert was issued, while Bangkok's Deputy Governor is addressing emissions from an On Nut waste plant.
[1] Volleyball.world - VNL 2025 Preliminary Round - Match 124 - Thailand vs Canada [2] Volleyball.world - VNL 2025 Final Rankings
- The success of Thailand's women's volleyball team in securing their spot for the next Volleyball Nations League (VNL) season not only showcases their resilience in sports but also underscores the potential of sports as a tool to foster national pride, bridging the gap between sport and culture.
- In the realm of politics, the relegation of South Korea from the VNL highlights the importance of sporting achievements as a critical factor in international relations, particularly within the context of competition between Asian rivals.
