The Thai men's national volleyball team broke a three-time semifinal disappointment by defeating the Philippines 3-0 in sets to reach the final as hosts.
On 18 Dec 2025 GMT+7, the men's volleyball semifinal of SEA Games 2025 saw host Thailand, an eight-time former gold medalist, face the Philippines. The young Thai team aimed to break a curse after losing at the semifinals three times in a row and saw this as a crucial chance to return to the final on home soil.
Thailand advanced as Group A champions with a perfect record of three wins, while the Philippines qualified as Group B runners-up.
In this match, South Korean head coach Park Ki-won started the first six players: Boonyarit Wongthon (setter), Napadech Pinijdee, Krisada Nilsawai, Anurak Punram, Chaiwat Thungkham, and libero Thanaphat Charoensuk.
In the first set, Thailand started clearly stronger, especially with blocks scoring early and maintaining consistent play throughout, closing the set comfortably at 25-20 to lead 1-0.
In the second set, Thailand continued to control the pace, while the Philippines made several errors, including service faults, hitting out, and fouls on attacks. Napadech Pinijdee, the 23-year-old opposite hitter, displayed a hot streak scoring heavily. Meanwhile, Krisada Nilsawai, the team's quick attacker, contributed several blocks as Thailand closed the set 25-19 to lead 2-0.
In the third set, Thailand maintained dominance, leading the Philippines by 10 points. Although the Philippines tried to catch up late, it was too late, and Thailand calmly sealed the set 25-21.
The match ended with Thailand beating the Philippines 3-0 sets (25-20, 25-19, 25-21), breaking their three-time consecutive semifinal heartbreak and advancing to the final.
In the gold medal final, Thailand will face defending champions and 12-time gold medalists Indonesia, who edged out Vietnam 3-2 in a thrilling semifinal. The final will take place on 19 Dec 2025 GMT+7 at 17:30.