China players celebrate after the women's volleyball semifinal at the 2026 Asian Games in Komaki, Japan, Sept. 21, 2026. (Xinhua/Wang Fei)
NAGOYA, Japan, Sept. 21 (Xinhua) -- China edged Thailand 3-2 in the women's volleyball semifinals at the 2026 Asian Games on Monday, avenging its defeat in last month's Asian Championship final and advancing to the gold-medal match.
China started strongly and built a four-point lead in the opening set, but Thailand responded with improved attacking and blocking. The teams remained level from 12-12 through 18-18 before Thailand pulled away to take the set 25-23.
China regained its composure in the second set, using quick attacks to establish a lead of about four points and holding on to win 25-21 to level the match.
China took control in the third, opening a lead of more than 10 points before cruising to a 25-11 victory and a 2-1 advantage.
China players celebrate after the women's volleyball semifinal. (Xinhua/Wang Fei)
The fourth set was much tighter, with neither side able to pull clear. The teams were tied at 26-26 before Thailand produced strong serving at crucial moments to take the set 28-26 and forced a decider.
China dominated the fifth set, using aggressive attacks to steadily extend its lead before closing out the match 15-6.
China head coach Zhao Yong said his players maintained their determination throughout the match.
"Both sides played a fantastic match, but our players showed a slightly greater hunger for victory on the court," Zhao said.
China reached the semifinals with a 3-0 victory over Vietnam in Sunday's quarterfinals, while newly crowned Asian champion Thailand advanced after sweeping Indonesia.
Monday's semifinal was a rematch of last month's Asian Championship final in Tianjin, China, where Thailand overtook China 3-2 to secure its first ever Olympic berth in women's volleyball. ■
