Alas Pilipinas loses to Iran in controversial 5-set match

Updated Fri, September 19, 2025 at 6:04 AM Published Thu, September 18, 2025 at 7:54 PM

Alas Pilipinas suffered a heartbreaking five-set loss to world No. 16 Iran with a score of 21-25, 25-21, 17-25, 25-23, 22-20 in the FIVB Men's World Championship.

The team was on the brink of victory, leading 20-18 in the fifth set after a block that they believed secured the win.

However, Iran successfully challenged a net touch call on middle blocker Kim Malabunga, which reset the score to 19-all.

This controversial call ultimately led to Iran's victory, ending Alas Pilipinas' historic campaign.

Malabunga expressed his deep regret over the incident, stating he lost his balance and apologizing for the loss.

Head coach Angiolino Frigoni, despite the painful exit, expressed pride in the team's growth and performance throughout the tournament.

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