Nakhon Ratchasima Outlasts PLDT to Top Pool D

Nakhon Ratchasima QminC VC flirted with disaster but regained composure just in time to repel a stunning comeback by PLDT, pulling off a thrilling 26-24, 25-20, 20-25, 20-25, 15-9 victory to top Pool D in the 2025 AVC Women’s Champions League on Tuesday at the Philsports Arena.

The Thai powerhouse started strong, taking a two-set lead before the High Speed Hitters stormed back to force a decider in a dramatic five-set showdown.

With the match hanging in the balance, the Devil Cat delivered an 8-1 closing run in the fifth set to seal the win and sweep the group stage with a 2-0 record.

The tournament is backed by Mikasa, Mizuno and Grand Sport.

PLDT looked ready to complete a reverse sweep, even grabbing an 8-7 lead in the deciding frame behind Majoy Baron and Cuban import Wilma Salas.

But Greek import Eva Chantava responded with a clutch crosscourt hit to tie the score.

A successful Thai challenge on a centerline violation by Kianna Dy swung the momentum.

A miscue between Dell Palomata and Salas further disrupted PLDT’s rhythm, though Salas trimmed the deficit to 10-9.

However, the High Speed Hitters’ offense unraveled late, allowing the Thai side’s attack to take over.

Saowapha Soosuk and Kaewkalaya Kamulthala delivered the finishing blows, while two unforced errors by Salas sealed PLDT’s fate.

“We never gave up and we played as a team—that was very important,” said Chantava, who tallied 16 points on 13 attacks and three aces.

“PLDT played amazing defense and had great attackers. We had to adjust to their game,” she added.

Nakhon Ratchasima now advances to face Pool A second seed Creamline in the quarterfinals of the tournament organized by Sports Vision.

PLDT, meanwhile, will take on Pool A top seed Zhetysu VC on Thursday in a must-win knockout match.