Nepal Aims for Final Spot by Defeating Former Champion Iran

On Thursday, in the second semifinal match of the Kavha Women’s Volleyball Championship, Nepal faces a strong Iranian team. Iran, the winner of Group ‘B’, remains unbeaten in the tournament so far, while Nepal, the runner-up of Group ‘A’, has recorded 2 wins and 1 loss. Previously, during a 2024 match held in Kathmandu, both Nepal and Iran had each won a game 1–1. (May 26, Kathmandu) The Nepalese team, aiming to claim the title on home ground in the Kavha Women’s Volleyball Championship, is set to compete against the formidable Iranian side in the second semifinal on Thursday.

Former champion Iran entered the semifinals undefeated as the Group ‘B’ winner, whereas Nepal secured their spot as the runner-up in Group ‘A’. Nepal began the competition with a competitive 3-2 loss to India but then recorded straight-set victories against Kyrgyzstan and Maldives to advance to the semifinals. Meanwhile, Iran defeated Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Kazakhstan each with identical 3-0 set scores to reach this stage.

Both teams, Nepal and Iran, have met expectations by progressing to the semifinals and are well-prepared for the challenge ahead. Carrying ambitions to win the championship, both sides are ready for their semifinal clash. Following the group stage, Nepal enjoyed a three-day rest period, while Iran had two days off before contesting the semifinal match. Nepal’s head coach, Jagdish Bhatt, stated that his team is prepared to face any opponent in the semifinals.

Iranian player Safinoud Dastbarjan expressed her enthusiasm about playing Nepal in the semifinal. She remarked, “We know there will be many spectators in the court. Nepal will have home support. However, we are mentally prepared for that.” The matchup between Nepal and Iran in women’s volleyball is not a first; these two teams have previously faced each other twice, all occasions taking place in Kathmandu. This upcoming match marks their third encounter on Nepalese soil.