By Ren Escosio
Thailand defended their SEA Men’s V.League title during the first leg of the tournament held in Candon, Ilocos Sur, in the Philippines, from July 9 to 13.
Thailand won the first leg of the 2025 edition of the men’s volleyball event after finishing the tournament with nine points from their 3-1 record.
Indonesia finished second in the tournament despite having the same record as the defending champions.
The Indonesian men’s team only secured eight points in the tournament, which meant gold went to the Thai team.
Vietnam settled for third place with seven points from a 2-2 record, followed by Philippines with five points from the same record.
Newcomers Cambodia ended the 2025 SEA Men’s V.League in last place with a 0-4 record.
They became the latest team to join the regional event after winning the 2024 SEA V.League Challenge.
All of the matches were held at the 8,000-seat Candon City Arena.
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Dream team named
Thailand’s Amorntep Konhan was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament, while fellow Thai player Kissada Nilsawai was awarded one half of the Best Middle Blockers award.
Vietnam’s Tran Duy Tuyen was named as the other Best Middle Blocker of the tournament.
Meanwhile, Vietnam’s Nguyen Ngoc Thuan and Indonesia’s Boy Arnez Arabi were the Best Outside Spikers of the competition.
The Philippines’ Leo Ordiales bagged the Best Opposite Spiker and was the only Filipino player to receive an individual award.
Completing the dream team of the first leg of the 2025 SEA Men’s V.League were Indonesia’s Jasen Natanael Kilanta (Best Setter) and Thailand’s Tanapat Charoensuk (Best Libero).
Asian Volleyball Confederation President Ramon Suzara and Candon City Mayor Eric D. Singson led the award presentation and closing ceremonies of the event.
Jakarta prepares for second leg
The second leg of the 2025 SEA Men’s V.League will be held from July 16 to 20, with Jakarta, Indonesia, serving as tournament host.
The competition will have the same format as the first leg.
All five participating countries are allowed to field the same players or submit a different line-up for the second leg.
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