China's Yu Zidi, 13, smashes record again with second Asian Games swim gold

KOMAKI, Japan — On September 21, 2026, Thailand's women's volleyball team faced China in a grueling Asian Games 2026 semifinal at Park Arena Komaki, ultimately falling 2-3 and advancing to the bronze-medal playoff. The match took place at Park Arena Komaki in Japan, with Thailand seeking a final berth. The team's performance had been exemplary throughout the tournament, clinching victories in all three group stage matches and sweeping Indonesia 3-0 in the quarterfinals.

For the semifinal, head coach Kiattipong "Coach Ott" Radchatagriengkrai deployed his strongest lineup, featuring captain Pornpun Guedpard, Thatdao Nuekjang, Sasipaporn Janthawisut, Pimpichaya Kokram, Chatchu-on Moksri, and Kaewkalaya Kamulthala, with Kalyarat Khamwong as the libero. China, led by captain Gong Xiangyu, fielded star attackers Zhuang Yushan and Wu Mengjie.

The contest was intense, with both teams exchanging victories across the five sets. Thailand claimed the opening set 25-23, but China responded resolutely by claiming the next two sets 25-21 and 25-11. Thailand staged a strong comeback with a hard-fought fourth set win 28-26, forcing a decisive fifth set. China emerged victorious in the fifth set 15-6, clinching a 3-2 win.

The outcome placed Thailand in the bronze-medal playoff, which will see them compete against the loser of the Japan vs. South Korea semifinal on September 22 at 14:00 local time.