Alas Pilipinas Men began their 2024 AVC Challenge Cup campaign with a tough loss, falling to 32nd-ranked China in straight sets, 19-25, 22-25, 22-25, on Monday morning in Bahrain.
Jau Umandal and Leo Ordiales led the team with 10 points each in the defeat. Despite the loss, head coach Sergio Veloso remained positive about the team’s performance against a formidable opponent.
“It’s a good match. I’m so happy with the team because we played against a very strong China. We had three young players on the court, and they played very well. The score is not reflective of the effort and fight we put in,” Veloso said in an interview with Bahrain Volleyball.
China’s Zhang Jingyin scored 15 points, while captain Jian Chuan contributed 13 markers to secure the victory for their team.
Next, the Philippine squad faces host country Bahrain, which poses another significant challenge, especially with the home crowd advantage. Veloso acknowledged the critical nature of the upcoming match.
“We know the fans here will fill the gym, and I expect a very good match. It’s now or never for us. We need to win the next match to advance to the next round,” Veloso emphasized.
With only two countries advancing from Pool A, another defeat would mean the end of the road for Alas Pilipinas in the AVC Challenge Cup.