Alas Pilipinas overpowered by Thailand in SEA V.League Second Leg opener

Alas Pilipinas showed signs of improvement but ultimately fell short against the six-time Southeast Asia V.League champion and host team Thailand, losing 18-25, 23-25, 16-25, in their Second Leg opener on Friday in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.

Despite a valiant effort, the Filipinas could not overcome the dominance of the Thai team, which extended its undefeated streak in the tournament to 19 games. Thailand, which has never lost in the history of the SEA V.League, once again proved too formidable for the Philippines to handle.

The first set saw both teams battling evenly in the early stages, but Thailand gradually pulled ahead, capitalizing on their sharp attacks and steady defense. Alas Pilipinas attempted to challenge the Thai blockers with their outside hitters but lacked the decisiveness needed to close the gap. Thailand secured the first set with a 25-18 win.

In the second set, Alas Pilipinas mounted a stronger challenge, keeping the score close throughout. However, the experience and skill of the Thai team prevailed in the crucial moments, allowing them to edge out the Filipinas 25-23 and take a 2-0 lead.

The third set saw Thailand return to their fast-paced, aggressive style of play, putting pressure on the Philippines from the outset. Despite their best efforts to counter, Alas Pilipinas couldn’t keep pace with the host team’s relentless attacks. Thailand closed out the match with a decisive 25-16 victory, sending the home crowd into celebration.

WATCH: Alas Pilipinas vs. Thailand (August 9) Game Highlights

This straight-set loss mirrored the result from their previous encounter in the opening leg, as the six-time champions once again proved too strong for their regional rivals.

Alas Pilipinas will look to regroup quickly as they continue their campaign against Vietnam on Saturday, August 10, at 4:00 p.m. (PH time), hoping to bounce back and secure their first win in the second leg of the tournament.