Alas Pilipinas Girls Dominate Tunisia to Share Second Place in Pool B at U17 World Championship

SAN FELIPE, Chile — The Alas Pilipinas Girls volleyball team continued their impressive run at the FIVB Volleyball Girls U17 World Championship with a commanding 27-25, 25-19, 25-16 victory over Tunisia on Saturday, moving them closer to securing a spot in the tournament’s Round of 16. This win marked their second consecutive triumph in Pool B, elevating the Filipinas to a 2-1 record and a share of second place alongside Peru, just behind the undefeated defending champions China.

Ranked 25th globally, the Philippine squad relied heavily on the strong partnership between outside hitter Xyz Rayco and setter Resty Olaguir to dismantle the Tunisian side. Rayco, who had been the top offensive threat at the recent Asian U16 championship in Jordan, contributed 13 points through 12 attacks and a block, including two crucial points that helped seal the opening set. Olaguir, despite initially not expecting to be paired with Irish Mahinay as the setter, adapted quickly and steadied the offense during a shaky start, helping the team regain composure.

This victory came just a day after the Filipinas secured their first-ever win in the biennial U17 World Championship by defeating eighth-ranked Mexico in four sets. The back-to-back wins have significantly boosted the team’s confidence and improved their standing in the highly competitive six-nation Pool B.

The Nationals, supported by the Philippine Sports Commission, ASICS, and the Philippine Olympic Committee, are now just one win away from advancing to the knockout stage. After a rest day on Sunday, the team is scheduled to face Peru, followed by a final group match against Venezuela. These upcoming matches will be critical in determining their progression in the tournament.

Rayco expressed optimism about her connection with the team’s setters, noting that when the ball is set well, she feels confident in her ability to execute kills. She emphasized her commitment to continuous improvement and adaptability regardless of who is on the court with her. Olaguir, meanwhile, acknowledged that she is still working on regaining her best form and managing her emotions during high-pressure moments, but she was pleased with her contribution to the team’s success so far.

Veteran attacker Caera Celis maintained her consistent performance, leading the team’s scoring for the third consecutive match with 15 points, including 13 attacks and two blocks. Her steady output has been a key factor in the Filipinas’ offensive effectiveness throughout the tournament.

With their recent victories and growing momentum, the Alas Pilipinas Girls have shed their underdog status and are proving their capability to compete on the world stage. Their performance in Chile not only highlights the progress of Philippine volleyball at the youth level but also raises hopes for a deeper run in the championship. The team’s next matches against Peru and Venezuela will be decisive in their quest to advance beyond the group phase and make history for Philippine volleyball.