Ateneo earns breakthrough win over Arellano in V-League 2025

Ateneo de Manila University finally entered the win column in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge after dispatching Arellano University in four sets, 25-13, 9-25, 25-21, 25-20, on Wednesday, September 3, at Paco Arena in Manila.

The Blue Eagles stumbled against NCAA teams College of Saint Benilde, Mapua, and Pepetual before finding their rhythm against the Lady Chiefs to avoid slipping further down the standings.

Zey Pacia powered Ateneo’s bounce-back with a standout performance of 23 points built on 22 kills and an ace, while also steadying the defense with five excellent digs and five excellent receptions.

Head coach Sergio Veloso credited his squad for playing smarter in pressure situations, noting that adjusting mid-match was the key to the victory.

“The players showed today that they can bounce back. They need to know how to play in different situations, and today, most of them played smart,” said Veloso.

Contributions also came from Alex Montoro with 10 markers and seven excellent digs, Ysa Nisperos with nine points. Robi Silla had eight along with four aces, while Jihan Chuatico chipped in five.

The Katipunan-based squad will look to keep its momentum when it faces Colegio de San Juan de Letran on Saturday, September 6. 

Despite the efforts of Marianne Padillon and Crisanta Servidad, who both finished with 12, and Fhaye Mangubat, who added nine, Arelanno fell short and will now shift focus to their upcoming clash with Perpetual Help.