Pakistan Advances to Semi-Finals in Asian U-16 Volleyball Championship

NAKHON PATHOM: Pakistan has guaranteed its place in the semi-finals of the Asian Under-16 Volleyball Championship by defeating Indonesia 3-0 in their initial crossover round match.

The Pakistani team secured a straight-set triumph with scores of 25-23, 25-20, and 25-20. The team notably recovered from an initial deficit in the first set, having trailed 3-12.

The team showcased strength in both attack and block points, although Indonesia had a slight advantage in service points.

Key Players

Exceptional performances were delivered by Muhammad Junaid, Faizanullah, Saran Baig, and Talha Maher. Junaid was the top scorer with 15 points, including 10 attack points, while Faizan contributed 11 points.

With this victory, Pakistan remains undefeated in Group F of the crossover round, along with Iran, both progressing to the semi-finals.

Pakistan is scheduled to face Iran in their concluding crossover match, which will determine their semi-final opponent.

Notably, Pakistan has secured all four of their matches without conceding a single set.

Previous Matches
  • Their journey commenced with a dominant 3-0 victory over South Korea, with set scores of 25-16, 25-19, and 25-8.
  • This win was fueled by significant contributions from Talha, Junaid, Wahab, Irfan, Faizan, and Sanan.
  • In their second match, Pakistan overwhelmed Saudi Arabia in another 3-0 victory, securing sets at 25-14, 25-13, and 25-11.
  • Pakistan also outperformed Chinese Taipei 3-0 in their last group match with scores of 26-24, 25-14, and 25-16.

The match against Chinese Taipei, held in Nakhon Pathom, lasted one hour and 17 minutes, with Faizanullah, Talha Maher, and Muhammad Junaid playing pivotal roles.

Pakistan and South Korea advanced from Pool D to the crossover stage, where they competed against the top two teams from Pool B.

The Asian Volleyball Confederation hosts the tournament across Nakhon Pathom and Ratchaburi in Thailand. Sixteen teams are competing, divided into four pools.

The top four teams will secure direct qualification for the expanded 24-team FIVB U17 World Championship in 2026.

The semi-finals and final of the Asian U16 Championship are set for July 19.