Alas Pilipinas Women look to end a 20-year Southeast Asian Games podium drought as they battle Indonesia in the bronze medal match.
Alas Pilipinas Women get one final chance to end a decades-long SEA Games medal drought as they face Indonesia in the bronze medal match of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games women’s volleyball tournament on Monday, December 15, at the Indoor Stadium Huamark in Bangkok.
Relegated to the battle for third after a straight-sets loss to Vietnam in the semifinals, Alas Women now turn their focus to a must-win clash that carries enormous historical weight.
A victory would snap the Philippines’ 20-year absence from the SEA Games podium, with the last medal coming back in 2005.
This will mark the Philippines’ fourth straight SEA Games bronze medal match since 2017 — and the third time Alas Pilipinas will face Indonesia for third place. So far, the Filipinas have yet to overcome the Indonesians in those previous medal duels, adding another layer of urgency to Monday’s encounter.
Despite the disappointment of the semifinals, the national team remains determined to finish strong — and one of the players expected to play a key role is Shaina Nitura, whose energy and versatility have provided valuable sparks throughout the tournament.
The young Adamson star provides Alas with a steady option who thrives in fast-paced, pressure-filled situations. Her ability to contribute across multiple facets could help tilt long rallies in the Philippines’ favor.
Offensively, Alas will continue to lean on Alyssa Solomon, who led the team with 10 points in the semifinals, as well as Angel Canino, while veteran Eya Laure is expected to offer leadership and stability despite limited action in the previous match.
At the net, Alas hopes to tighten its blocking and improve serve-receive — two areas that proved costly against Vietnam.
With history on the line and a podium return within reach, Alas Women aim to turn heartbreak into redemption — and finally bring a SEA Games medal back to Philippine women’s volleyball.
[ALSO READ: Alas coach Jorge De Brito says SEA Games medal chase is about pride, not silencing critics]
First serve is set for 4:00 p.m.
(With reports from Kiko Demigillo/One Sports)
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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.]