Ateneo cruises past Chiefs; Benilde rallies to upset FEU

Ateneo de Manila University regained momentum in its semifinal push, sweeping winless Arellano University, 26-24, 25-18, 25-22, in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Sunday afternoon, September 7, at the Paco Arena Events and Sports Center in Manila.

Shaking off the sting of a narrow loss to archrival La Salle the day before, the Blue Eagles leaned on the leadership of team captain Jian Salarzon and the consistency of Amil Pacinio to keep their campaign alive.

Salarzon starred with a well-rounded performance, scoring 14 points on 10 attacks, three blocks, and an ace, while also anchoring the floor defense with 11 excellent receptions and four digs. Pacinio added 12 markers on 11 attacks and a block as Ateneo closed the eliminations with a 4-3 card, cementing its hold on solo fourth place.

The Chiefs, reigning NCAA champions, exited winless at 0-7, taking only four sets throughout the elimination round. Arman Gunito paced Arellano with 15 points off 14 kills and a block, while Jiwen Sinuto chipped in nine markers.

Meanwhile, College of Saint Benilde pulled off the upset of the night, stunning defending champion Far Eastern University in a gripping five-set duel, 31-29, 25-21, 17-25, 19-25, 17-15. 

Reigning NCAA MVP Rocky Motol and wing spiker Reymark Betco powered the Blazers’ breakthrough. 

Betco erupted for 24 points on 23 attacks and a block, while Motol added 20 points, highlighted by two aces, along with a superb defensive effort of 22 excellent receptions and six digs. Benilde improved to 2-4, with their first win also coming against Arellano.

The Tamaraws, who slipped to 3-3 after their third straight defeat, squandered solid efforts from middle blocker Lirick Mendoza and sophomore hitter Amet Bituin, who both delivered 19 points apiece. Luis Miguel chipped in 15 markers off the bench, while second setter Rhodson Du-ot dished out 25 excellent sets, but it wasn’t enough to stop FEU’s skid.

FEU now faces a crucial duel against Letran, with major semifinal implications on the line.