May 10, 2025

Mikko Espartero, FEU look to strike first against NU in Game 1 of UAAP Season 87 Finals

Mikko Espartero, FEU look to strike first against NU in Game 1 of UAAP Season 87 Finals
The FEU Tamaraws are two win aways from not only fulfilling a destiny, but also denying a dynasty in the form of the NU Bulldogs. | Photo (c) UAAP

It’s been over a decade since FEU last ruled UAAP men’s volleyball.

Now, with a golden chance to end that drought, the Tamaraws find themselves not just chasing a title—but trying to stop a dynasty.

FEU returns to the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball Finals for the first time since 2019, facing a familiar and formidable foe in the form of the four-time defending champion NU Bulldogs. 

Game 1 of their best-of-three title clash fires off this Sunday, May 11, at 1:00 p.m. at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

The Tamaraws are on a mission to reclaim their own spot at the top of collegiate volleyball, seeking a record-extending 26th title and their first since Season 74 in 2012.

[ALSO READ: FEU Tamaraws put school pride on the line in UAAP Season 87 Finals vs NU]

Unlike NU, FEU quickly dispatched the DLSU Green Spikers in four sets in their Final Four duel.

[ALSO READ: FEU flexes Final Four muscle vs La Salle to make UAAP Season 87 Finals]

Ariel Cacao steered the offense with 31 excellent sets, while rookie sensation Mikko Espartero exploded for 17 points. Lirick Mendoza added 14, and both Dryx Saavedra and Amet Bituin chipped in 11 each.

 

[ALSO READ: Fueled by last season’s heartbreak, FEU marches to first UAAP Finals since 2019]

In this Finals showdown, dynasty is on the line. But so is destiny.

(With reports from Pao Ambat)

[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.]

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