Alas Pilipinas snatched their first-ever set victory in the FIVB Men's World Championship against world no. 21 Egypt.
Alas Pilipinas are officially on the board in the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship after taking the first set in their crucial duel against world no. 23 Egypt at the Mall of Asia Arena on Tuesday, September 16.
The Philippine squad banked on a much better start from Leo Ordiales and Bryan Bagunas to score their first-ever set win in the FIVB World stage, 29-27.
Alas' fast start led to its largest lead at 8-5 after Ordiales’ backrow attack.
However, Egypt managed to pull ahead at 21-19, before Alas Pilipinas responded to make it 22-all.
The first frame would eventually head into an extended set as Egypt couldn't cash in, committing multiple service errors late.
Still tied at 27-all, a huge kill block by Kim Malabunga put Alas in its first set point. Ordiales would then deliver a thunderous service to seal the set victory.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.