Bahrain Beat Thailand to Launch Nations Cup Bid

Hosts make strong start with 3-1 win in Riffa opener, Indonesia Next

• Bahrain defeat Thailand 3-1 in opener
  
  

• Crowd lifts Bahrain in key moments
  
  

• Next match vs Indonesia at 7pm tomorrow

Winning Start in Riffa

Bahrain’s men’s national volleyball team opened their 2025 AVC Men’s Volleyball Nations Cup campaign with a comfortable 3-1 win over Thailand last night at Isa Bin Rashid Arena in Riffa.

Backed by a vocal home crowd, the hosts now take early control of Group A.

Set scores:

25-21 Bahrain

21-25 Thailand

25-19 Bahrain

25-22 Bahrain

Key Performers Step Up

Ali Ebrahim led the scoring for Bahrain with composed attacking displays and strong serves, while Anan and Mohammed Yaqoob added vital experience and consistency in key phases.

Mahmood Alafyah and Ayman Harwana also made significant contributions, both in defence and transition, helping Bahrain regain momentum after dropping the second set.

The result gives Bahrain a major boost heading into their next group fixture against Indonesia, who they face at 7pm tomorrow night.

Home Crowd Makes a Difference

With fans filling the stands and generating a lively atmosphere, Bahrain’s players fed off the energy throughout the match. The support mirrored scenes from last year’s Arab Championship and proved crucial during tight moments, particularly in the fourth set.

Quarter-Final Path Takes Shape

The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout rounds. Victory over Thailand, a former Nations Cup champion, puts Bahrain in a strong position to qualify—especially with only Indonesia left to face in pool play.

The eventual tournament winner will also earn a place in the 2026 Asian Men’s Volleyball Championship, the next step on the road to the 2028 Olympics.

Did You Know?

This year’s AVC Nations Cup champion will qualify directly for the 2026 Asian Championship—a vital step toward Olympic qualification.