Pakistan claims historic ‘bronze medal’ in Asian Men’s U18 Volleyball Championship

MANAMA: Pakistan claimed a historic bronze medal following a stunning 3-0 victory over Japan in the 15th Asian Men’s U18 Volleyball Championship on Sunday.

Earlier, the Pakistan U18 Volleyball team qualified for the FIVB Volleyball Boys’ U19 World Championship 2025 after securing a spot in the semifinal of the ongoing U18 Asian Championship.

The Pakistanis were firing on all cylinders in the much-anticipated game and outplayed opponents in three quick sets with set scores of 25-13, 25-21, and 25-17.

For Greens Shirts, Muhammad Yahya remained the successful player with 21 points, while Muhtad Ali Shah added 14 points in a resounding performance. Yuki Kashiwazaki had nine points and Teruki Ishida added seven for the Japanese, who appeared a far cry from their best.

Pakistan’s Muhammad Yahya was awarded with the ‘Best Opposite’ and Jabran with the ‘Best Middle Blocker’ award of the tournament held in Manama, Bahrain.

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With the much-appreciated result, Pakistan claimed their first-ever medal in the men’s junior team competition in only their second appearance. Green Shirt’s previous best in the championship was 11th in 2018.

By placing fourth, Japan missed out on the podium for the first time since 2010. They were the champions in the previous three editions in 2017, 2018, and 2022, but could not continue that winning run this year.

This impressive performance places Pakistan in the third position among 16 participating countries, including notable teams from Bahrain, Thailand, Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, Chinese Taipei, Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan, Iran, China, Lebanon, the Philippines, India, Korea, and Kuwait.