Thais target Belgian scalp after heartbreak

Thailand push China to five sets, seek breakthrough

Thailand are targeting their first win of the FIVB Women’s Volleyball Nations League 2026 campaign when they take on Belgium in their third pool match in Nanjing, China on Saturday.

The Thais suffered their second loss of the tournament despite pushing hosts China to five sets on Thursday.

The defeat follows the opening 3-0 loss to Serbia, but the point gained moves the Thais off the bottom of the standings.

Kiatipong Ratchatakriengkrai’s team put on a brave performance in an all-Asian derby but ultimately lost to the home team 2-3 (14-25, 26-24, 19-25, 25-23, 7-15 at Nanjing Olympic Youth Sports Park Gymnasium.

Thailand fought back strongly after dropping the first set, taking the second and fourth sets through transition plays led by veteran middle blocker Thatdao Nuekjang, who scored a team-high 16 points, and outside hitter Sasipapron Janthawisut with 14 points. However, China dominated the fifth set, racing to a 9-3 lead before finishing the match 15-7.

“We pushed hard and had good moments in our first match, and we brought the same energy today,” said outside hitter Ajcharaporn Kongyot.

“It’s a little bit frustrating that we didn’t take the win today, but I thought we played a very good match. We believe in the work of our staff and our team, and we’re confident we can win matches like this.”

Zhuang Yushan led the charge in the Asian derby, registering a match-high 21 points (20 kills, one block) for China. “Thailand did a great job today, and we had to put in our best effort to fight back,” said Zhuang.

The victory was a relief for China, who suffered a shock 3-0 loss to the Czech Republic in their opening match on Wednesday.