Unbeaten Pakistan to face Bangladesh in the final after securing sixth consecutive straight-set victory in Islamabad
Pakistan continued their remarkable run in the Zong 5G Central Asian Volleyball Association (CAVA) Men’s Volleyball Championship 2026 by defeating Sri Lanka in straight sets to secure a place in the tournament final at the Liaquat Gymnasium, Pakistan Sports Complex, Islamabad, on Tuesday.
The championship entered its crucial knockout stage with three competitive matches, including two high-stakes semifinals. Pakistan maintained their unbeaten record with another commanding display, while Bangladesh booked their spot in the final after overcoming Uzbekistan in convincing fashion.
The day began with the fifth-place classification match between Kazakhstan and Nepal. Kazakhstan showcased superior teamwork, effective serving, and disciplined attacking play throughout the contest.
Nepal offered resistance, especially in the closely fought second set, but Kazakhstan held its nerve in key moments to complete a 3-0 victory. The set scores were 25-16, 26-24, and 25-20, helping Kazakhstan finish fifth in the championship, while Nepal ended its campaign in sixth place.
In the first semifinal, Bangladesh delivered one of its strongest performances of the tournament against Uzbekistan. Aggressive serving, solid blocking, and excellent coordination allowed Bangladesh to control the match from start to finish.
Despite Uzbekistan’s efforts to remain competitive, Bangladesh maintained its momentum and secured a straight-set win with scores of 25-21, 25-20, and 25-19. The victory earned Bangladesh its first appearance in the championship final, while Uzbekistan moved into the bronze-medal playoff.
The second semifinal saw Pakistan produce another dominant performance in front of a passionate home crowd. The hosts excelled in every department, including serving, blocking, attacking, and defense, leaving Sri Lanka struggling to find answers.
Pakistan claimed the opening set 25-18 before delivering their most emphatic performance of the tournament in the second set, which ended 25-10. Sri Lanka improved in the third set and offered stronger resistance, but Pakistan remained composed to close out the match 25-21 and complete a 3-0 victory.
The result extended Pakistan’s unbeaten streak to six consecutive matches, with the team yet to lose a single set in the tournament.
Pakistan Volleyball Federation Chairman Ch. Muhammad Yaqoob congratulated the players, coaching staff, and management for reaching the final. He said the team’s six straight victories without dropping a set reflected exceptional preparation, discipline, and determination, adding that the players had made the nation proud.
PVF President Sohail Khawar Mir also praised the squad’s consistency and professionalism, stating that reaching the final without losing a set was a historic achievement. He expressed confidence that Pakistan would maintain its momentum and lift the championship trophy.