Alas Pilipinas beats New Zealand in AVC Cup

Alas Pilipinas women's volleyball team resumes competition in the 2025 AVC Women's Volleyball Nations Cup held in Hanoi, Vietnam from June 7 to 14.

The Philippine squad includes a blend of experienced players and promising rookies, ranging from 30-year-old setter Jia de Guzman to 20-year-old Shaina Nitura, the most recent UAAP Rookie of the Year.

Alas Pilipinas is placed in Pool B alongside New Zealand, Kazakhstan, Iran, Indonesia, and Mongolia, requiring a top-two finish to secure a semifinal spot.

The team secured a convincing victory against New Zealand on Wednesday with scores of 25-17, 25-21, 25-18, led by Eya Laure and Alyssa Solomon who returned from an ankle injury.

Vanie Gandler made a significant comeback in the game with a game-high 12 points, tying teammate Eya Laure's contribution of 12 points. Rookie Clarisse Loresco also contributed five points in her first career start.

Alas Pilipinas now holds a 3-1 record and must face Kazakhstan on Thursday, June 12 at 11 am to secure their semifinal spot.