Both coming off strong performances and enjoying a much-needed rest, Akari and Choco Mucho are all geared up for battle for crucial playoff positioning in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig on Saturday.
The highly anticipated encounter at 6:30 p.m. is more than just another match – it is a confidence-boosting duel ahead of the post-preliminaries phase, where the top teams in the 12-squad tournament will clash with lower-seeded teams in knockout rounds.
Winners of these matches will advance to the quarterfinals, while the last two available spots will be contested in a play-in tournament among the losing teams.
With both squads in good form, this match is expected to be a thrilling and tight battle from start to finish.
The fifth-running Chargers are eager to secure their third straight win and maintain their spot at No. 5 with 6-4 record. A victory would solidify their spot in the playoff race and boost their confidence heading into the knockout rounds.
The Chargers have been riding on the stellar performances of their offensive trio – Ivy Lacsina, Eli Soyud and Faith Nisperos – who have consistently delivered on the attacking end.
Meanwhile, middle blocker Fifi Sharma will be tasked with anchoring the defense at the net, along with libero Justine Jazareno, who has been a reliable presence in floor defense. Playmaker Kamille Cal will be key in setting up plays and ensuring smooth ball distribution for the team.
Akari has shown dominance in their past few matches, sweeping Capital1 on Feb. 1 after overpowering the struggling Nxled Chameleons. The Chargers’ balanced offense and steady defense will be vital in overcoming Choco Mucho’s deep and experienced lineup.
On the other hand, Choco Mucho is on a three-game winning streak and determined to keep the momentum going. A win would push them to a 6-3 record, putting them on equal footing with Cignal HD Spikers and PLDT High-Speed Hitters at third place.
The Flying Titans, led by the high-flying Sisi Rondina, have been a force to be reckoned with. Rondina’s explosive attacks and unmatched energy on the court will be key in breaking through Akari’s defenses. Alongside her, Dindin Manabat, Isa Molde, Royse Tubino and Cherry Nunag will bring a mix of power, experience and versatility to the team’s offensive arsenal.
"Resting is a big thing for us. Being able to see and do the things we haven't done yet or still want to do when it comes to crucial games, and of course, focusing more on skills – on what else can be improved." said Choco Mucho head coach Dante Alinsunurin in Filipino. The Flying Titans went on a 15-day break after their last game against PLDT.
Choco Mucho’s offense will also heavily rely on the quick ball distribution of setter Deanna Wong, whose chemistry with the team has been instrumental in their recent success. The Flying Titans have not played since their dominant four-set win over PLDT, giving them ample time to rest and strategize for this crucial encounter.
The 4 p.m. showdown between Galeries Tower and Nxled presents a battle for pride and redemption as both teams look to gain momentum heading into the next phase or the play-in tournament organized by Sports Vision and backed by Watsons.
With just one win against seven losses, the Highrisers are desperate to snap their losing streak and claim a victory over the Chameleons, who remain winless after eight matches.
Despite showing promise with strong starts in several games, Galeries Tower has struggled to sustain its performance, often faltering in crucial moments.
This inconsistency has left them near the bottom of the standings with a 1-7 record in the tournament backed by Arena Plus, Fabriano Appliances, Milcu, iColor & Argan Beauty, Tapa King, Sport Radar and Mikasa.
Nxled, on the other hand, has endured an even tougher campaign, managing to win only four sets across eight matches, with all other losses coming via straight-set defeats.
However, with nowhere to go but up, head coach Ettore Guidetti remains optimistic that the Chameleons can finally turn the tide. They will look to seize this opportunity against the Highrisers, whose lone victory came in a sweep of the Solar Spikers last Dec. 7.
Games are telecast live on Pilipinas Live, RPTV, One Sports, One Sports+, and pvl.ph.
