Thailand started poorly against the London Olympic bronze medallists, trailing 2-6 in the first game. Spectacular attacks by Ajcharaporn Kongyot and powerful Onuma Sittirak helped Thailand tie at 8. Things began to change for Thailand, who suddenly started playing nervously and making unforced errors in offence. Japan, strengthened by three key players Saori Kimura, left-handed Miyu Nagaoka and Yuki Ishii, took a huge lead at 23-15 and went on to take the opener at 25-18.
Nagaoka and Ishii smashed past the fragile Thai defence to help Japan take a commanding 24-15 lead in the second game. Onuma could do nothing against the triple block put up by the rivals.