February 20, 2026

Ariel Cacao, FEU gun for 3-0 start in UAAP Season 88 with duel vs champ NU

Ariel Cacao, FEU gun for 3-0 start in UAAP Season 88 with duel vs champ NU
FEU looks to pull off a statement win over reigning champion NU in what could be a Finals preview in UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball. | Photo: UAAP

After falling just short of the crown last season, the FEU Tamaraws are determined to make this year different.

A perfect 3-0 start and sole possession of the top spot are on the line as the Tamaraws face five-time defending champion NU Bulldogs in a marquee UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball clash on Saturday, February 21, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Tee time is 11:00 a.m., with live streaming available on the Pilipinas Live app. It will also be shown on the UAAP Varsity Channel.

[RELATED: SCHEDULE | UAAP Season 88 volleyball guide, where to watch]

The Tamaraws followed their season-opening win over DLSU with a 25-20, 25-23, 25-23 sweep of UE, showing poise even after committing 13 errors in the second set .

[RELATED: FEU dispatches UE for share of early lead with next foe NU in UAAP men's volley]

Lirick Mendoza bannered FEU with 16 points while Dryx Saavedra and Doula Ndongala added a combined 21-point output. 

Team captain Ariel Cacao orchestrated a sizzling offense, distributing 23 excellent sets and chipping in two points himself.

But the real test is coming.

FEU has not forgotten last season’s heartbreak—a winner-take-all Game 3 loss that handed NU its fifth straight title. 

[RELATED: NU Bulldogs complete historic 5-peat after beating FEU in UAAP Season 87 Finals]

Sharper, deeper, and visibly motivated, the Tamaraws enter the showdown ready to prove they are no longer just contenders—they are ready to take control.

(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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