Bangkok: The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) is optimistic about the prospects of the U23 Thai volleyball team and expects the team to advance to the later stages of the upcoming Asian Games, anticipating a successful medal haul.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Kongsak Yodmani, Governor of the SAT, has confirmed the completion of preparations for Thailand's "Chang??? U23" men's national football team and the Thai women's national volleyball team ahead of the 20th Asian Games. Scheduled to take place from September 19th to October 4th, 2026, in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, the teams are reportedly in excellent condition. Any modifications to player lineups will adhere to established protocols, with a focus on maintaining the athletes' physical fitness.
The men's Under-23 football team finds itself in Group A alongside Japan, Kyrgyzstan, and Hong Kong. Dr. Kongsak sees the inclusion of host nation Japan as a valuable opportunity to test the team's capabilities against a formidable opponent. He expressed confidence in the team's potential to progress beyond the first round and make it to the later stages of the tournament.
On the volleyball front, the Thai women's indoor team, which has previously claimed Asian championship titles and Asian Games medals, is expected to at least reach the semi-finals. Grouped with Chinese Taipei, Kyrgyzstan, and Mongolia in Group C, the team is anticipated to face stiff competition from China, Japan, and South Korea. Nevertheless, Dr. Kongsak remains assured of their medal-winning prospects.
The men's football tournament will see participation from 15 countries, divided into four groups, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the knockout round. Similarly, the indoor women's volleyball competition involves 14 countries, also divided into four groups, following a round-robin format leading to the knockout stage.