ICYMI: Alas Pilipinas exits FIVB Men's World Championship after five-set defeat to Iran

The Philippines' historic run in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship ended in a heartbreak after a hard-fought five-set loss to Iran at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Fighting for a spot in the round of 16, the Filipinos controlled much of the match and even reached match point six times in the final set. However, Iran, ranked higher, managed to stay strong and turned the game around ending 22-20 set 5 win.

The home crowd celebrated when the Philippines thought they had won at 20-18, but Iran successfully challenged the point at the net, shifting momentum in their favor. Middle blocker Yousef Kazemi Poshtpari then finished the match with a decisive block.

Team captain Bryan Bagunas led the Philippines with 22 points from 18 kills, three blocks, and an ace, while Leo Ordiales added 21 points. Marck Espejo scored 15, and Kim Malabunga contributed 10.

National coach Angiolino Frigoni expressed his disappointment, saying, "It's a pity to lose this way. We were in a dream, and it ended just one point before the finish. But that's sports – this is part of the game."