The first leg of the SEA V-League is taking place at the Nakhon Ratchasima Sports Center in Thailand from 1/8 to 3/8. Four strong teams from the region are participating: Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia.

This tournament serves as preparation for Vietnam for the World Cup and the 33rd SEA Games. Coach Nguyen Tuan Kiet brought his strongest lineup of 14 players, featuring notable athletes like Tran Thi Bich Thuy, Nguyen Thi Bich Tuyen, Le Thanh Thuy, and Tran Thi Thanh Thuy.

Tran Thi Thanh Thuy and her teammates secured a comfortable 3-0 victory against Indonesia in their opening SEA V-League 2025 match on Thursday, 1/8, at the Nakhon Ratchasima Sports Center (Thailand). *Photo: SMM Volleyball*

In their opening match, Vietnam faced Indonesia. Despite the return of Megawati Hangestri Pertiwi, who played for the Red Sparks club in South Korea, the Indonesian team was not considered as strong as Vietnam. Coach Tuan Kiet even rested his most potent attacker, opposite hitter Bich Tuyen, while outside hitter Le Thanh Thuy played only in the first set.

Even without their strongest lineup, Vietnam displayed versatility in both attack and defense, easily winning the first two sets with identical scores of 25-11.

In the third set, Coach Kiet gave some reserve players a chance to compete, allowing Indonesia to keep the score close. They even took a 21-19 lead. However, after solidifying the lineup, Vietnam tied the score, then increased the gap, winning 25-22 after a combination attack by Thu Uyen.

The SEA V-League has been held seven times, with Thailand winning every edition. With their current strong form and lineup, Vietnam is expected to challenge for the title.

Tomorrow, 2/8, the team will face the Philippines.

Duc Dong