MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines made volleyball history on Tuesday, September 16, as World No. 88 Alas Pilipinas stunned World No. 21 Egypt, 29-27, 23-25, 25-21, 25-21, to capture their first-ever victory in the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The breakthrough triumph electrified the home crowd as the Filipinos, competing in just their second match of the tournament, took down the reigning African champions in four gripping sets.
The win not only marked their first set and match victory in World Championship history, but also fueled hopes for a deep run in the global competition.
Team captain Bryan Bagunas once again led the charge, unleashing 25 points in a clutch performance that anchored the Filipinos through tense rallies.
Rookie opposite Leo Ordiales bounced back from a quiet debut against Tunisia, delivering 21 points, including key attacks that sealed the fourth set and the victory.
“I’m speechless, hindi namin inaasahan na mananalo kami today,” Bagunas said in a post-game interview, capturing the emotion of the team’s milestone win.
The triumph came after Alas Pilipinas dropped their opening match to Tunisia in straight sets last Friday.
With a 1-1 record, the Philippines now stands within striking distance of a Round of 16 berth, setting the stage for a crucial showdown against World No. 13 Iran on Thursday, September 18, at 5:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, Egypt, also at 1-1, faces a must-win clash with Tunisia on the same day to keep their playoff hopes alive.
This historic upset announced the arrival of the Philippines on volleyball’s biggest stage, turning underdogs into giant-slayers and igniting a nation’s belief in its team’s bright future.
— The Summit Express