Nagoya:Thailand's national women's sepak takraw team secured a silver medal after losing to Vietnam in the four-person final at the Nagoya Mizuho Park Gymnasium.
According to Thai News Agency, the Thai team, with players Rasmi Thongsood, Somrudee Pruaprak, Wipada Jitpruan, and Rattanigorn Saeheng, faced Vietnam, the defending champions. Despite a strong start, Thailand fell behind in the first set, losing 15-11.
In the second set, Thailand substituted Mallika Boontod, who helped the team take an early lead. However, an ankle injury to Wipada Jitpruan allowed Vietnam to adjust and level the score. Thailand managed to win the set 17-15, tying the match at one set each.
The final set saw a close competition, but Vietnam ultimately emerged victorious with a 15-11 win, securing the gold medal. Thailand earned the silver, with Indonesia and Japan taking bronze.
Coach Veerachai Saengsawat acknowledged the team's efforts and noted the injury to Jitpruan as a pivotal moment in the match. He expressed regret to fans who had high expectations for a medal.
In other sports, Thai taekwondo competitor Patcharakarn Poonkird advanced to the semi-finals in the women's 49kg sparring event but lost to Ma Jingyu of China, earning a bronze medal. Despite personal tragedy, Patcharakarn showcased resilience throughout the competition.
Thailand's taekwondo team has earned a total of one silver and two bronze medals in recent events, contributing to the country's medal tally, which currently stands at 15 golds, 12 silvers, and 17 bronzes.