"Coach Ott" reveals two positives despite the Thailand women's volleyball team losing to Belgium in VNL 2026 Week 1, Match 3.
On 6 June 2026, Coach Ott Kiattipong Ratchta-Kriangkrai, head coach of the Thailand women's national volleyball team, spoke after the FIVB Women's Volleyball Nations League 2026 (VNL 2026) Week 1, Match 3 held in Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
The Thailand women's volleyball team suffered a narrow 2-3 defeat to Belgium, with set scores of 25-20, 25-22, 23-25, 22-25, and 14-16. Despite leading 2-0 in sets, they were unable to maintain their advantage.
Coach Ott commented on two reasons behind Thailand's loss to Belgium in this match: "Both teams tried to adjust their strategies. When the other side made substitutions, we did the same, using our players fully and managing them carefully."
"But there were two minor mistakes: timing and preserving opportunities. We didn't hold on to our chances as well as we should have, which cost us the victory. Belgium managed their chances well; their reception and counterattacks were efficient, which became the turning point."
Nevertheless, Coach Ott praised two positive aspects from the defeat, saying, "I commend all the players for their spirit and fighting effort. No one gave up, even though the game dynamics kept changing."
"Everyone learned and tried to adjust tactics, using spirit, communication, and unity to win each point. This is a good quality that we should maintain."
"I will continue to support the players psychologically and help build their confidence. There are many more games ahead where we need to learn and strive to improve."
"Tomorrow is another important match for us. Right now, physical condition and mental state are crucial. I believe everyone has a strong mindset and fighting spirit to compete fully for victory."
In VNL 2026 Week 1, Match 4, the Thailand women's volleyball team will face the Czech Republic on Sunday, 7 June, at 10:30 a.m. Thai time. Currently, Thailand has earned 2 points from two 2-3 losses, ranking 16th out of 18 teams.
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