National U beats De La Salle, ends rival's win streak

National University secured a crucial victory over De La Salle University in their UAAP Season 86 Final Four matchup on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena, marking their first win against DLSU since clinching the Season 84 championship in 2022.

Vange Alinsug led National University with 22 points as they won 25-22, 23-25, 25-16, 25-22 and extended their winning streak to five games in the second round.

Despite nursing a back injury, Bella Belen contributed significantly with 14 points, seven digs, and seven receptions, helping National University snap De La Salle's seven-game win streak and end their own five-game losing skid against them.

Both Alinsug and Belen expressed their excitement about the victory, which they had been looking forward to for some time.

National University now shares a 10-2 record with the University of Santo Tomas Tigresses, setting them up as strong contenders for the Final Four.

Alinsug emphasized that the team's mindset is focused on maintaining consistency and performing at their best in the remaining two elimination games before the postseason.