Alas caps U17 Worlds debut with historic 15th-place finish

Alas Pilipinas Women capped off their maiden FIVB Girls’ U17 World Championship run with a historic 15th-place finish as they edged out Czechia via a 21–25, 25–22, 25–14, 25–22 gentleman sweep in Santiago, Chile, Aug. 16.

The Nationals averted an early meltdown as they surged in the second and third cantos to gain the upper hand at a 2–1 set advantage.

Knotted at a 17-all deadlock in the fourth frame, Alas’ Sharina Lleses fired at all angles to boost their lead to 23–19.

However, world No. 22 Czechia quickly trimmed the deficit at 23–22 after uncorking a 3–0 blitz on their own off quick attacks.

Caela Celis, a woman on a mission, drilled a superb left-wing attack followed up by another high-flying hit to close out the game with the win.

Celis delivered a monstrous performance of 25 points from 20 attacks, four aces, and one block to pave Alas’ way to victory.

Opposite hitter Jhaynna Bulandres also bolstered the Philippines’ firepower with 15 markers to return to the win column.

Alas Girls’ historic debut became the highest-ranking run for the Philippines in any global tournament so far, surpassing Alas Men’s 19th-place finish last year in the same tournament.