Alas Pilipinas faces a tough test against Egypt in the FIVB Mens Volleyball World Championship on September 16, 2025, at Mall of Asia Arena in Manila. The Filipino team vows to show heart and fight hard against the favored African champions, aiming for an upset after their debut loss.
Team Vows Strong Fight
Josh Ybanez, the Alas Pilipinas libero, promises full effort in this crucial Pool A match. He watched Egypt stun Iran and noted their discipline and composure under pressure.
That win gave Egypt an early lead share with Tunisia. Alas Pilipinas learned from their opening game against Tunisia, where they rallied late but fell short.
Ybanez, a two time UAAP MVP from University of Santo Tomas, adapts to his national team role. He believes mindset and heart will help them compete.
The quick turnaround between games allows limited fixes, but the team focuses on defensive improvements and coach adjustments.
Key Players Shine Bright
Bryan Bagunas leads Alas Pilipinas after a strong return from injury. He sparked a comeback against Tunisia with bold scoring.
Bagunas casts aside the underdog label for the host nation. His leadership inspires the squad ahead of this make or break clash.
On Egypts side, their coach expects a difficult match despite the ranking gap. They respect the Filipinos home crowd energy and recent promise.
Other standouts include Josh Ybanez for defense and Egypts consistent performers who toppled higher ranked Iran.
Recent Games Build Momentum
Egypt enters with confidence after beating Iran 25 17, 16 25, 25 23, 25 20 on September 14. This upset boosts them for the Tuesday showdown.
Alas Pilipinas lost to Tunisia 13 25, 17 25, 23 25 in their world debut on September 12. Yet the third set surge shows potential.
Both teams aim to advance in Pool A. Philippines seeks a historic win in their first championship hosting.
Crowds at Mall of Asia Arena have been electric, supporting the home side through highs and lows.
The match starts at 5:30 p.m. local time, with live coverage expected to draw big viewership.
Coach Insights and Strategies
Egypt coach Marco Bonitta warns of a very difficult game against Alas Pilipinas. He praises the hosts organization and fight.
Alas coach stresses heart and execution. They plan to counter Egypts strong serves and blocks seen in the Iran match.
Adjustments from the Tunisia loss include better defense and energy from the start. Players like Ybanez will key the backline.
Bonitta notes the challenge of playing in front of a passionate Filipino crowd. His team prepares for intense pressure.
Strategies focus on consistency and composure, traits Egypt showed against Iran.
Match Outlook and Stakes
This game could define Pool A standings. A win for Alas Pilipinas would be a miracle against world No. 21 Egypt.
Experts see Egypt as favorites, but the hosts promise to tear down that aura. The Filipinos aim for their first ever world championship victory.
Fans hope for a shocker, building on the teams recent international showings.
Here are key factors that could decide the match:
- Home crowd support boosting Alas energy
- Egypts experience in high stakes games
- Bagunas scoring runs versus Egypts defense
- Discipline under pressure for both sides
Current Pool A standings as of September 16, 2025:
| Team | Wins | Losses | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Egypt | 1 | 0 | 3 |
| Tunisia | 1 | 0 | 3 |
| Philippines | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Iran | 0 | 1 | 0 |
A victory here keeps advancement hopes alive for Alas. Share your thoughts on this exciting matchup in the comments below, and spread the word to fellow volleyball fans.
