NAGOYA, Japan — Qatar face hosts Japan in the Asian Games volleyball quarter-finals on Thursday, with a place in the last four at stake at Aichi-Nagoya 2026.
Qatar reached the knockout stage after finishing second in Group C. They opened with victories over Hong Kong and Vietnam before losing 3-2 to India in their final group match.
Qatar took the first two sets against India 28-26 and 27-25, but India levelled the contest before winning the deciding fifth set 24-22.
The quarter-final presents a different challenge, with the knockout format leaving no margin for recovery from defeat. Japan will also have home support behind them.
Qatar coach Soto is familiar with the Japanese side, having faced them in a friendly during the team’s pre-Games training camp.
The Argentine coach is expected to focus on serving, reception and dealing with Japan’s attacking play, while maintaining concentration during key points.
Qatar’s technical staff are aware of the challenge posed by the hosts but will rely on their players’ ability to compete in the knockout stage.
Qatar will now look to build on their group-stage performances and secure a place in the semi-finals, while Japan seek to use home advantage to continue their campaign.
