by sportswriters Zhang Zewei and Yuan Yukuan
TIANJIN, Aug. 27 (Xinhua) -- Japan and Thailand both clean swept their opponents 3-0 in the quarterfinals here on Thursday to reach the semifinals of the 2026 Asian Women's Volleyball Championship.
Japan raced to an 11-4 lead in the opening set and then scored six straight points behind powerful serving from outside hitter Yukiko Wada to widen the gap before comfortably taking the set 25-14.
Chinese Taipei improved in the second set, taking a 6-2 lead. However, the team faced pressure midway as Japan's two outside hitters consistently scored with attacks, sparking an 8-1 run and reversing the momentum. Japan ultimately overcame Chinese Taipei to win the set 25-21.
The Japanese women took full control in the third set where they prevailed 25-13.
Japan outblocked Chinese Taipei 11-1 and produced four aces, compared to nil for Chinese Taipei. Three Japanese players scored in double figures, with Wada Yukiko recording a match-high 19 points.
Despite missing out on the semifinals, Chinese Taipei middle blocker Yeh Yu-Wen said the team was fortunate to compete on a world-class stage against top Asian teams.
"We have played two strong teams, China and Japan, over the past two days and learned a lot from them. Japan in particular are similar to us in stature. What they are able to do in terms of physical conditioning, mentality and tactical execution is something we also need to learn from and strive for," Yeh said.
Thailand defeated South Korea 25-20, 25-18 and 25-21 in Thursday's other quarterfinal match to set up a semifinal clash with Japan.
Opposite Pimpichaya Kokram scored a match-high 19 points for Thailand with outside hitters Sasipapron Janthawisut and Chatchu-On Moksri adding 16 and 12 respectively. Thailand was also better from the service line, firing six aces, compared to South Korea's one.
"Thailand play at a very fast tempo. We will carefully study their match videos and prepare accordingly. We hope to perform at our best," said Japan outside hitter Mayu Ishikawa.
The other two quarterfinals will be played on Friday with China facing Vietnam and Indonesia taking on Iran. ■
