Thai Volleyball Wins SEA V Cup Opener Against Indonesia

Thailand's women's volleyball team, fielding a mixed roster of emerging talent and veterans, narrowly defeated Indonesia to claim the opening match of the SEA V Cup 2026 in Vietnam. The first leg of the women's volleyball tournament took place at the Dong Anh Gymnasium in Hanoi from July 31 to August 2, 2026. In their first match on July 31, Thailand faced Indonesia, extending their unbeaten record against the Indonesians across their five most recent meetings.

Coach Kiattipong Rattakeankrai sent a blend of young and established players onto the court, led by captain Nattanichcha Chaisaen, alongside Sasipapon Chantvisut, Warisara Sithalert, Kanyarat Khunchuang, Nannapat Mulacham, and Kaewkalya Komultala, with Kalayarat Khamvong as the libero. Indonesia countered with a similarly mixed lineup, led by experienced spiker Medi Yogu.

The match saw Thailand start strong in the first set, opening a lead and holding on to win 25-21 despite a late fade. Indonesia rebounded in the second set with strong serving and blocking while Thailand struggled with unforced errors. Coach Kiattipong brought in Piew Atchcharaporn Khongyos to help, and Thailand clawed back to 24-24, but ultimately fell 32-34 after a grueling deuce.

In the third set, the coach deployed his main lineup, including Sasipapon and Atchcharaporn, along with Wimolrat Tanaphan to strengthen the offense. Thailand played more composed volleyball to win 25-21. In the fourth set, despite repeated errors, Thailand sealed the victory 25-21, taking the match 3-1 in sets with scores of 25-21, 32-34, 25-21, and 25-19.

Thailand next faces the Philippines on August 1 at 4 p.m. at the Dong Anh Gymnasium in Hanoi, with live coverage on ONE 31.