Vietnam's men's sepak takraw team employed a unique "Great Wall" defensive strategy to defeat Thailand in the semi-finals of the 4-man event at the 2025 world championships on 25/7. Coach Tran Huynh Dat implemented a three-man block, featuring Vuong Minh Chau, Dau Van Hoang, and Nguyen Van Ly, whenever Thailand attempted an attacking spike. This wall-like formation, leaving only captain Nguyen Hoang Lan to defend the backline, proved highly effective.

In contrast, Thailand's coach Prawat Intra opted for a single blocker, either Phutawan Sopa or Pornthep Tinbangbon. Despite their height advantage, these blockers couldn't cover the same area as Vietnam's triple-block. The remaining Thai players defended the backline.

Vietnam’s Nguyen Van Ly, Dau Van Hoang, and Vuong Minh Chau (from left) block Phutawan Sopa's spike during the men’s 4-man sepak takraw world championship semi-final at Central Hatyai shopping mall, Songkhla province, Thailand, on the evening of 25/7/2025. *Screenshot*

Coach Dat's tactics were demonstrably effective. Thailand's attacks were blocked 7 times, compared to Vietnam's 4. This 3-point difference was crucial in the close match, with set scores of 15-12 and 17-16.

"Vietnam's 'Great Wall' is amazing," the PBS commentator remarked repeatedly. "They blocked many of Thailand's attacks thanks to this tactic."

Thailand primarily relied on Phutawan for attacking spikes, later replaced by Pornthep. Vietnam's Minh Chau, Van Hoang, and Van Ly strategically positioned themselves near these attackers, ready to form the triple-block upon any spiking attempt.

Had Thailand employed a similar three-man block, the outcome might have been different, especially given Vietnam's strong attackers, Van Hoang and Van Ly.

Vietnam has utilized this three-man blocking strategy in recent tournaments, including the World Cup final against Thailand in 3/2025, where it proved less successful. This time, the tactic was key to their victory.

The "Great Wall" defense demands intense focus. On one occasion, Phutawan scored due to Minh Chau's momentary hesitation between joining the block and defending the backline. This lapse prompted immediate feedback from teammates Van Hoang and Van Ly.

This blocking style also carries the risk of head injuries. In one instance, Van Hoang required medical attention after a powerful spike from Phutawan grazed his ear.

Vietnam's victory ended Thailand's long-standing dominance in the 4-man event. Thailand had consistently won this title in previous years but suffered two defeats in this tournament, against Malaysia in the group stage and Vietnam in the semi-final.

Coach Dat's team will face Japan in the final today, 26/7. Vietnam's only loss in the tournament so far was a 2-1 defeat against Japan in the group stage, presenting an opportunity for revenge.

Xuan Binh