TEHRAN – Iran launched its 2026 Asian Games volleyball campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Kyrgyzstan in their Group B opener, winning 25-11, 25-16, 25-20.
Roberto Piazza’s side controlled the match from the outset, with Iran taking the first set comfortably before maintaining its advantage through the second and third sets.
Iran started with Amin Esmaeilnezhad, Arshia Behnezhad, Ali Haghparast, Mobin Nasri, Hossein Hajiklateh, Yousef Kazemi and Issa Nasseri, with the team now turning its attention to Thailand and Indonesia in the remainder of the group stage.
Piazza, however, said the result did not fully reflect the level of performance he expects from his players.
“We had a simple game and started the first set very well,” Piazza said.
“From the second set, the game gradually moved toward adapting our game to the opponent, and in fact, we were playing based on their game.”
He added that while he was pleased with the straight-set victory, Iran could have performed at a higher level.
Piazza also praised captain Amin Esmaeilnezhad, saying he was “very happy” with the opposite hitter’s performance and noting that he made only one mistake in the third set.
The coach warned that the upcoming matches would be significantly more demanding, stressing that Thailand and Indonesia are “strong opponents” who play at a different level.
Looking beyond the group stage, Piazza declined to predict whether Iran would retain the Asian Games title.
“To reach the final, we must deserve to beat the teams and reach the final,” he said.
He added that Iran must progress “day by day” and prove its credentials on court rather than talk about reaching the final in advance.
With their opening victory secured, Iran have made a positive start to their Asian Games campaign.