Japan-Thailand matchup a tough one, Jap coach says

When two superpowers collide, it’s expected to be a good one.

Just as Japan head coach Kiyoshi Abo said, a Japan-Thailand semifinals match will be “a tough one.”

“Japan and Thailand has good defensive and offensive systems,” Abo said through a translator after securing a semifinals spot in the Asian U23 Women’s Volleyball Championship as the Japanese defeated India in three straight sets Thursday afternoon at Philsports Arena.

“Very tough for us, well not only for us but for Thailand.”

Thailand still has to win against the Islamic Republic of Iran on Thursday evening but it looks like Japan is ready for whoever it faces.

Japan team captain Nao Muranaga said Thailand has “a very good offense” but her team is prepared for it.

“Thailand has a very good offensive system, they can attack from the front and from the back row,” Muranaga said. “We’re ready to dig.” CC