Alas Pilipinas Men face a daunting task ahead as they open their 2025 AVC Nations Cup campaign against last year's silver medalist Pakistan.
After a confidence-boosting run in their three-day Invitationals tournament, Alas Pilipinas Men now brace for a much sterner test as they kick off their campaign in the 2025 AVC Men’s Volleyball Nations Cup on Tuesday, June 17, in Manama, Bahrain.
The national team, hoping to continue its winning momentum, opens its group stage campaign against a formidable Pakistan squad.
Led by playmaker Owa Retamar, Alas Men aim to bring the same composure and chemistry that helped them sweep South Korea’s Hyundai Capital, Indonesia’s Jakarta Bhayangkara Presisi, and regional rival Thailand just last week in the Alas Pilipinas Invitationals.
Standing in their way is a Pakistan team looking to go one better this year after finishing second in the previous edition.
The Pakistanis, currently among Asia’s strongest squads, bowed to world no. 24 Qatar in last year’s final, 22-25, 20-25, 19-25, and are now aiming for a title breakthrough.
Pakistan brings experience and size—qualities the Philippines will have to counter with grit, speed, and cohesion.
Under the guidance of Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni, Alas Pilipinas hopes to build on its regional gains and prove its growth on the continental stage.
[ALSO READ: Angiolino Frigoni tempers expectations for Alas Pilipinas despite Invitationals sweep]
Tip-off for Alas Men’s opening match is set for 7:00 p.m.
[ALSO READ: SCHEDULE | Alas Pilipinas Men aim to level up at AVC Nations Cup in Bahrain]
(With reports from Kiko Demigillo)
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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]