Manama, Bahrain, August 4, 2024 – Pakistan captured bronze medal in the 15th Asian Men’s U18 Volleyball Championship on Sunday following a stunning 3-0 (25-13, 25-21, 25-17) victory over Japan in the third-place playoff clash at the Isa Sport City Hall C here.
The Pakistanis were firing on all cylinders in the much-anticipated game and outplayed their opponents in three quick sets.
Muhammad Yahya was the hero of the team with 21 points, while Muhtad Ali Shah added 14 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.
With the result, Pakistan claimed their first-ever medal in the youth competition in only their second appearance.
Libero Khizar Hayat said after the match that it was an historic achievement for their team to be in the podium of the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) event, and although they did not make it to the final, which was their initial target, their bronze could be a fine reward for their efforts.
Their previous best in the championship was 11th in 2018, which was their only other time to compete in this age-group competition.
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.
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