TEHRAN – Saipa of Iran lost to Japan’s NEC Red Rockets Kawasaki 3-1 (25-27, 25-12, 25-18, 25-14) in Pool B of the 2024 Asian Women’s Club Volleyball Championship on Monday at Chartchai Hall.

Lorrayna Da Silva started for the Japan club and led all scorers on the board with 21 points. 

“I’m really happy for today’s match. It’s the first time for me to play wearing the NEC jersey. My objective is to also play well in defense as the Japanese are known for this, so I will try to achieve this while I’m here. I’m just excited to keep playing match after match,” she said. 

The Japan club started off with their trademark rhythm of fast plays, and utilizing Lorrayna’s heavy, yet speedy hits. 

The competition’s pool play will conclude on Tuesday. NEC Red Rockets Kawasaki will play against the Philippines’ Monolith Sky Risers, while Saipa Club will face Vietnam’s LPBank Ninh Binh in the opening match.

The competition is being held in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand from Sept. 22 to 29.

The top two teams will qualify for the 2024 FIVB Women’s Club World Championship, due to be held in China from Dec. 17 to 22.

Saipa had lost to the Philippines’ Monolith Skyrisers on Sunday.