Alas Pilipinas soar to Pool A lead after defeating India

The Philippine women’s national volleyball team, Alas Pilipinas, delivered a thrilling four-set victory over previously undefeated India in Pool A action of the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup!

The Filipinos displayed remarkable resilience once again, overcoming a slow start (losing the first set 22-25) to claim the next four sets convincingly (25-21, 25-17, 25-18) at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila.

This victory echoes their opening match against Australia, showcasing the team’s ability to adapt and overcome adversity. Despite dropping the first set, Alas Pilipinas displayed unwavering determination, clawing their way back to clinch the next three sets and ultimately secure the win.

Angel Canino, the De La Salle University star, once again spearheaded the offensive attack, leading the team in scoring with 22 points (19 attacks, 2 aces, and 1 block). She received valuable support from Chery Tiggo’s Eya Laure (17 points) and the impressive middle blockers, Fifi Sharma and Thea Gagate, who both contributed 12 points each.

India, who entered the match with an undefeated record after sweeping both Iran and Chinese Taipei, were dealt their first loss of the tournament. This unexpected upset by Alas Pilipinas significantly alters the Pool A standings.

With this victory, Alas Pilipinas ascends to the top spot in Pool A. As long as they maintain their winning form, a coveted spot in the semifinals seems within reach. Their next challenge is against Iran on Saturday at 7:00 PM, while India will aim to bounce back against Australia.