Candon city: Thailand advanced to the semifinals of the SEA Men's V Cup first leg after defeating Myanmar, 25-15, 25-16, 25-19, at the Candon City Arena in Ilocos Sur.
According to Philippines News Agency, Nadapet Bhinijdee led the charge with 17 points, comprising 13 attacks, two blocks, and two aces. His teammate Chaiwat Thungkham added another 10 points with nine attacks and an ace, helping Thailand secure their second consecutive win in Pool B. The victory came shortly after their triumph over Vietnam, which ended with a score of 33-31, 18-25, 25-19, 25-16 on Wednesday.
The match against Myanmar concluded in just over an hour, further solidifying Thailand's position in the tournament. As Vietnam and Myanmar prepare to face each other on Friday, Thailand is optimistic about their performance so far.
Thungkham expressed satisfaction with the team's progress, emphasizing their aim to replicate last year's title win in the SEA V League. "We got three points today; we hit our goal. We are very happy with these two games; this boosts our confidence for the next round," he stated through an interpreter.
Meanwhile, Indonesia, the Asian Volleyball Confederation Men's Cup champion, is set to compete against Alas Pilipinas and Cambodia in Pool A. The tournament is presented by the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, and the City of Candon, led by Mayor Eric D. Singson.
Thungkham highlighted the team's focus on taking each game as it comes. "We look at it game by game, we focus on just that. One game, one game, and then the next, until the final," he added.
