Maebashi, 29 November 2025 – Tran Thi Thanh Thuy delivered another standout performance, scoring 20 points to help Gunma Green Wings overturn Toray Arrows 3–2 in a tense five-set thriller in Round 15 of the Japan V.League Women.
Gunma Green Wings extended their impressive winning momentum in the Japan V.League Women 2025–2026 after producing a dramatic 3–2 comeback victory against Toray Arrows on the afternoon of 29 November. The match, part of Round 15, saw Trần Thị Thanh Thúy once again play a decisive role as Gunma prevailed 23–25, 27–25, 24–26, 25–20 and 15–12, securing their fifth consecutive win and strengthening their position in the top five.
Entering the match with four straight wins, Gunma aimed to keep building their momentum but were immediately challenged by a resilient Toray Arrows side. Despite a competitive opening set, Gunma fell short 23–25, signalling a tough battle ahead for the Vietnamese star and her teammates.
The second set showcased Gunma’s resilience. After controlling the tempo and leading 24–20, they surprisingly allowed Toray Arrows to score five points in a row, putting the set in jeopardy. At the critical moment, Thanh Thuy stepped up to stabilise the attack, helping Gunma edge out a 27–25 win and level the match 1–1.
The intensity only increased in the third set. Gunma fought back after a slow start and held the advantage midway through, but fatigue in the final rallies cost them dearly as Toray Arrows clinched the set 26–24 to regain a 2–1 lead.
Facing defeat, head coach Sakamoto made a crucial tactical adjustment in the fourth set by moving Thanh Thuy from outside hitter to opposite hitter. This strategic shift immediately enhanced Gunma’s attacking diversity. With Rozanski and Takaso covering the wings and Thanh Thuy reinforcing the opposite position, Gunma’s offense became more unpredictable and effective. The team dominated the latter half of the set, winning 25–20 and forcing the match into a deciding fifth set.
In the tiebreak, both sides battled fiercely for every point. However, the composure and experience of Gunma’s key players proved decisive. Maintaining a tight block and capitalising on transition attacks, Gunma sealed the set 15–12, completing a hard-fought comeback victory.
Thanh Thuy delivered another exceptional performance with 20 points, reaffirming her importance to the squad and her standing as Vietnam’s top volleyball star. Her versatile display—especially after switching positions—played a major role in Gunma’s success.
With this victory, Gunma Green Wings improved their record to nine wins after 15 matches in the 2025–2026 V.League season, further boosting their confidence as the competition progresses.
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