PVL 2025 Season 4 (Match 35): Delhi Toofans edge Kolkata Thunderbolts in epic five-set battle, paving Goa Guardians’ path to the semi-finals
Goa Guardians advanced to the PVL 2025 semi-finals as Delhi Toofans edged Kolkata Thunderbolts 3–2 in a thrilling encounter in Hyderabad. Saqlain Tariq was Player of the Match.
Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], October 24: The Goa Guardians sealed their place in the semi-finals after the Delhi Toofans edged past the Kolkata Thunderbolts 18–16, 11–15, 12–15, 15–11, 15–12 in the RR Kabel Prime Volleyball League powered by Scapia at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium, Hyderabad, on Wednesday. Saqlain Tariq was adjudged the Player of the Match for his stellar performance.
With this result, Goa Guardians are set to face the Mumbai Meteors in the first semi-final on Friday, October 24, 2025.
Expressing his pride and optimism, Chairman and Principal Owner of the inaugural season champions, CA Pawan Kumar Patodia, said, “This is part of the journey. We are immensely proud of how far the team has come, fighting till the very end. We’ll return stronger next season to chase the trophy once again. Our heartfelt thanks to all the fans for their unwavering support, the players and staff for their relentless effort, and the PVL management for putting together a phenomenal tournament.”
The match opened with both teams attacking from the middle. Delhi’s Jesus Chourio made the first significant impact. Ashwal Rai maintained pressure for the Thunderbolts with strong spikes. A smart review call from coach Manoj Nair helped the Toofans secure the first set.
Pankaj Sharma’s missile-like service tested Delhi’s defence. Ashwal continued to challenge Delhi’s libero Aljo Sabu. Matin Takavar executed a superb block on Chourio, and the Thunderbolts claimed the second set.
Aayush delivered two key blocks as Delhi regained composure. A risky super point attempt by the Thunderbolts backfired with Carlos’ spike. However, Aayush’s overhit shot cost the Toofans a super point, allowing the Thunderbolts to take the lead and win the third set.
Losing two sets left Delhi out of contention for a semi-final spot. Yet, the outcome did not deter Delhi skipper Saqlain Tariq from seeking a win. Abhishek Rajeev and Muhammed Jasim led the comeback. With a smart block from Jasim, Delhi pushed the match into a decisive fifth set.
With Kolkata’s Matin off the court, Delhi ran plays from the middle, utilising both Jasim and Aayush. Matin’s return put pressure on the Toofans, but outstanding defending from libero Aljo helped Delhi secure a vital super point. The Toofans ultimately scripted a memorable win, eliminating Kolkata.
