Haikou (China), July 14, 2026: Pakistan continued their dominant run at the 2026 AVC Boys’ U18 Volleyball Championship, defeating Thailand in straight sets on Tuesday to finish the group stage unbeaten and qualify for the quarter-finals as Pool C winners.
At the Wuyuanhe Gymnasium in Haikou, the Green Shirts registered a convincing 25-19, 25-19, 25-23 victory over Thailand, extending their flawless campaign to three consecutive wins without dropping a single set.
Having already secured a place in the knockout stage with commanding victories over Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, Pakistan sealed top spot in Pool C with a perfect record of three wins from three matches.
The Pakistani side dominated the opening two sets through disciplined defence, solid blocking and consistent attacking play before holding off a spirited Thai comeback in the third set to complete another emphatic 3-0 victory.
Pakistan wrapped up the group stage in impressive fashion, defeating Kyrgyzstan 25-10, 25-19, 25-17, Kazakhstan 25-14, 25-12, 25-9, and Thailand 25-19, 25-19, 25-23.
Fahad Ali led Pakistan’s offensive charge with another outstanding performance, while Muhammad Anas made crucial contributions through effective blocking and quick attacks at the net. Captain Muhammad Irfan also played a key role, guiding the team with composure during the closely contested third set.
Pakistan will now face the runners-up of Pool A in the quarter-finals on July 16. Their opponents will be determined after the conclusion of the Pool A match between hosts China and Chinese Taipei.
Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) Chairman Chaudhry Muhammad Yaqoob congratulated the players and coaching staff on completing the group stage unbeaten, describing the performance as a reflection of the team’s discipline, commitment and thorough preparation.
PVF President Sohail Khawar Mir also praised the team’s outstanding campaign but urged the players to remain focused for the knockout rounds, stressing that the level of competition would become even tougher from the quarter-finals onward.
