Alas Pilipinas experienced their first loss at the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women’s Volleyball Nations Cup on Monday, falling to Iran in a closely contested five-set match, 25-16, 21-25, 26-24, 23-25, 13-15.
The match took place at the ongoing tournament in Hanoi, where both teams battled intensely. Shaina Nitura and Dell Palomant delivered key hits for the Philippines, while Vanie Gandler contributed an ace that gave Alas Pilipinas a 13-11 lead in the decisive fifth set.
Iran’s Zahra Salehi and Khalili Chermahini fought back to even the score in the final frame. A costly attack error by Angel Canino ultimately tipped the balance in Iran’s favor, securing their narrow victory.
Prior to the loss, Alas Pilipinas remained unbeaten after topping Indonesia earlier in the competition. The defeat marks a setback for the team as the tournament progresses.
Alas Pilipinas players and coaching staff plan to review the match to identify areas for improvement ahead of upcoming games. The AVC Women’s Volleyball Nations Cup features top teams from across Asia competing for regional honors.
