In the vibrant heart of Bangkok, a highly anticipated friendly volleyball match unfolded, serving not merely as a contest of skill but as a crucial strategic prelude. The Asian powerhouses, China and Thailand, stepped onto the court in their final dress rehearsal before the curtain rises on the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship. This exhibition was less about the final score and more about fine-tuning, assessing readiness, and, for China, celebrating a pivotal return.
A Strategic Sweep in the Thai Capital
The Hua Mak Indoor Stadium buzzed with excitement as thousands of fans witnessed this unique encounter. While branded a `friendly,` the competitive edge was unmistakably present. China showcased their formidable prowess, securing a decisive 3-0 victory with set scores of 25-22, 25-22, and 25-18. In a charming nod to the spirit of camaraderie and entertainment, a fourth set was played, featuring a delightful mix of players from both national teams. Such is the meticulous choreography of elite sports; even a “friendly” match transforms into a high-stakes dress rehearsal.
After missing the VNL 2025, Li appeared in China`s starting lineup against Thailand.
The Return of a Star: Li Yingying`s Impact
Beyond the impressive sweep, the most significant narrative of the evening was the re-emergence of China`s star outside hitter, Li Yingying. The 25-year-old, known for her powerful left-handed attack, had been conspicuously absent from the Volleyball Nations League 2025. Her return to the starting lineup against Thailand was a clear declaration of intent, signaling her readiness to contribute to China`s World Championship campaign. Head coach Zhao Yong also strategically reintroduced middle blocker Gao Yi, another key player who missed the VNL, reinforcing China`s formidable lineup.
Thailand`s Pre-Championship Assessment
For the Thai squad, this match was an invaluable opportunity to test their systems against a top-tier opponent. They deployed their full arsenal of main players, including the masterful setter Pornpun Guedpard, dynamic opposite Pimpichaya Kokram, and prolific outside hitters Ajcharaporn Kongyot and Chatchu-On Moksri. The scoreboard might have declared a Chinese victory, but in the nuanced world of pre-championship strategizing, the true win for Thailand lay in the insights gained.
“It was a good opportunity for us to test our playing system and understand what we need to fix before the start of the tournament,” reflected Thai middle blocker Thatdao Nuekjang. “We’re just two days away from the first match, and we’ll make sure to take what we learned today and try to improve.”
Thailand`s Thatdao Nuekjang and Sasipaporn Janthawisut try to stop Chinese captain Gong Xiangyu.
Onward to the Championship Stage
With this crucial preparatory match behind them, both teams now turn their full attention to the impending World Championship. Thailand remains in Bangkok, where they will compete in Pool A against formidable opponents Egypt, Sweden, and the Netherlands. China, meanwhile, embarks on a journey to Phuket, set to host their Pool F matches against Mexico, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic. The friendly sweep in Bangkok has set the tone, confirming China`s renewed strength and Thailand`s diligent preparations. The stage is set, and the world of women`s volleyball awaits the unfolding drama of the 2025 FIVB World Championship.
