PVL 2025 Season 4 (Match 35): Goa Guardians secure semi-final berth as Delhi Toofans edge Kolkata Thunderbolts in pulsating five-set clash

Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], October 23: Goa Guardians sealed their spot in the semi-finals after Delhi Toofans edged past Kolkata Thunderbolts 18–16, 11–15, 12–15, 15–11, 15–12 in a nail-biting encounter of the RR Kabel Prime Volleyball League powered by Scapia at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium, Hyderabad, on Wednesday. Saqlain Tariq’s exceptional performance earned him the Player of the Match award.

With this result, Goa Guardians will take on the Mumbai Meteors in the first semi-final scheduled for Friday, October 24, 2025.

Reflecting on the season, the inaugural champions’ Chairman and Principal Owner, CA Pawan Kumar Patodia, said, “This is part of the journey. We’re proud of how far the team has come and how fiercely they fought. We’ll return stronger next season to reclaim the trophy! Our heartfelt gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support, to the players and staff for their dedication, and to the PVL management for hosting such an incredible season.”

The game started with both teams attacking from the middle. Delhi’s Jesus Chourio made the first major dent. Ashwal Rai kept the pressure up for the Thunderbolts with strong spikes. A smart review call from coach Manoj Nair helped the Toofans win the first set.

Pankaj Sharma’s missile service put pressure on the Toofans’ defence. Ashwal kept up the pressure on Delhi’s libero Aljo Sabu. Matin Takavar made a super block on Chourio, and the Thunderbolts won the second set.

Aayush made two important blocks as Delhi regained composure. A risky super point for the Thunderbolts backfired with Carlos’ super spike. But Aayush’s overhit shot cost the Toofans a super point, and the Thunderbolts took the lead, winning the third set.

Losing two sets meant that Delhi were out of contention for a place in the semi-finals. But the result did little to deter Delhi skipper Saqlain Tariq from seeking a win. Abhishek Rajeev and Muhammed Jasim led their fightback. With a smart block from Jasim, Delhi pushed the game to the fifth set.

With Kolkata’s Matin off the court, Delhi began running the play from the middle, utilising both Jasim and Aayush. Matin’s return put pressure on the Toofans. But tremendous defending from libero Aljo helped the Toofans win a super point, and the Toofans scripted an unforgettable win, eliminating Kolkata.