(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Türkiye, Canada, Bulgaria, and Spain Set for Pool E Clash at 2025 FIVB Women’s World Championship
The 2025 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship kicks off this week in Thailand, bringing together 32 national teams in the first-ever biennial edition. Matches will take place across Bangkok, Nakhon Ratchasima, Phuket, and Chiang Mai from August 22 to September 7.
Pool E action in Nakhon Ratchasima will feature Türkiye, Canada, Bulgaria, and Spain, with six thrilling matches scheduled:
-
August 23: Canada vs. Bulgaria – 16:00 local (9:00 GMT)
-
August 23: Türkiye vs. Spain – 19:30 local (12:30 GMT)
-
August 25: Canada vs. Spain – 16:00 local (9:00 GMT)
-
August 25: Türkiye vs. Bulgaria – 19:30 local (12:30 GMT)
-
August 27: Türkiye vs. Canada – 16:00 local (9:00 GMT)
-
August 27: Bulgaria vs. Spain – 19:30 local (12:30 GMT)
Türkiye
The Sultans of the Net are making their sixth appearance, led by Italian coach Daniele Santarelli. Ranked 6th in the FIVB World Rankings, Türkiye will count on captain Eda Erdem, middle blocker Zehra Güneş, opposite Melissa Vargas, and outside hitters Ebrar Karakurt and Hande Baladin to aim for their first World Championship medal.
Canada
Making their 11th appearance, Canada qualified with a bronze at the 2023 NORCECA Championship. Coached by Giovanni Guidetti, the Canadians are ranked 12th globally. Key players include outside hitter Hilary Johnson, middle blockers Emily Maglio and Nyadholi Thokbuom, and opposite Anna Smrek.
Bulgaria
Returning after a 12-year absence, Bulgaria enters their 14th World Championship under coach Antonina Zetova. Ranked 20th, they will rely on setter Lora Kitipova, opposite Mikaela Stoyanova, and middle blockers Nasya Dimitrova and Hristina Vuchkova.
Spain
Making only their second appearance, Spain returns more than 40 years after 1982. Led by veteran coach Pascual Saurín and ranked 32nd, key players include setter Patricia Muñoz, opposite Julia de Paula, outside hitters Ana Escamilla and Maria Segura, and libero Patricia Llabrés.
Fans can watch all matches live on VBTV, starting with intense Pool E clashes in Nakhon Ratchasima.
