Nakhon Ratchasima outlasts PLDT in five-set AVC thriller

The PLDT High Speed Hitters showcased grit and determination but ultimately fell short against Thailand’s Nakhon Ratchasima Volleyball Club in a thrilling five-set match, 24-26, 20-25, 25-20, 25-20, 9-15, in the 2025 AVC Women’s Champions League on Tuesday, April 22, at the Philsports Arena.

After falling behind two sets to none, the High Speed Hitters mounted an impressive comeback, winning the third and fourth sets behind the efforts of Savi Davison and Cuban import Wilma Salas. Davison spearheaded the third-set resurgence, while Salas provided crucial support in the fourth to force a deciding set.

PLDT appeared poised for a breakthrough in the fifth set, pulling even at 8-all. However, a center line fault swung the momentum back to the Thai side, sparking a decisive 7-1 run from Nakhon Ratchasima that sealed the match. The rally was capped by a service ace, ending PLDT’s spirited challenge.

Nakhon Ratchasima, a six-time Thai League champion, remained undefeated in Pool D and secured the top seed heading into the knockout stage. They are set to face Pool A’s second-seeded Creamline Cool Smashers in the quarterfinals.

PLDT, finishing second in Pool D, now turns its attention to a critical quarterfinal matchup against nine-time Kazakh champions Zhetysu, who dominated Creamline earlier in the tournament.

Chantava Evangelia led Nakhon Ratchasima with 16 points off 13 attacks and three service aces, earning Player of the Game honors for her all-around performance.

Despite the loss, PLDT’s resilient performance against one of Asia’s most formidable teams highlights the squad’s growing competitiveness on the international stage.