(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Thailand Earn First VNL 2026 Victory with Straight-Sets Win Over Bulgaria
BANGKOK: Thailand recorded their first victory of the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2026 campaign with a convincing 3-0 win over Bulgaria in front of home supporters on Thursday.
Backed by more than 5,000 fans in Bangkok, the Thai team delivered one of their strongest performances of the tournament, winning 25-22, 25-20, 25-17 to improve their position in the standings.
The result ended a difficult start to the competition for Thailand, who had lost their opening five matches. The victory lifted them to 14th place with six points.
Outside hitter Sasipapron Janthawisut played a key role in the success, leading all scorers with 21 points, including 15 attack points, three blocks and three aces. Opposite hitter Pimpichaya Kokram also contributed significantly with 18 points.
“We have worked very hard, and we are pleased to achieve this result,” Sasipapron said after the match. “The support from our fans motivates us, and we are happy to share this victory with them.”
For Bulgaria, outside hitters Miroslava Paskova and Aleksandra Milanova each scored 11 points.
In the other VNL match played in Bangkok on Thursday, Poland defeated Ukraine 3-1 (25-21, 25-13, 22-25, 25-23).
Poland’s Magdalena Stysiak delivered an outstanding performance, finishing with 29 points, including 27 successful attacks and two blocks, to help her team secure the victory.
The latest results strengthen Thailand’s confidence as they continue their VNL 2026 campaign, while Poland maintained its positive momentum in the competition.
