Thailand beat South Korea in straight sets to reach the Asian Championship semi-finals, keeping alive their bid for a direct LA28 Olympic berth
Thailand booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Continental Championship with a commanding straight-sets victory over South Korea in Tianjin on Thursday (August 27).
The defending champions won 25-20, 25-18 and 25-21, keeping alive their bid to retain the Asian title and secure a direct place at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
Thailand dictate play
Thailand set the pace through steady service reception and disciplined defence, giving them the freedom to attack from both wings and through the middle.
South Korea struggled to contain the speed and variety of the Thai offence in the opening two sets. Thailand took the first 25-20 before tightening their grip on the match with a 25-18 victory in the second.
The Korean side offered stronger resistance in the third set and kept the score close, but Thailand remained composed during the closing stages. The Thai players protected their advantage and completed the sweep 25-21.
Thursday’s victory did not itself secure an Olympic place, but it moved Thailand to within two wins of the continental title and automatic qualification.
Thailand will meet the winners of the quarter-final between Japan and Chinese Taipei, which was scheduled for later on Thursday. The result of that match will determine the defending champions’ next obstacle on their road to the final.
