Alas girls sweep Tunisia, boost chances of advancing in U17 worlds

MANILA, Philippines — Alas Pilipinas girls bagged their historic second win in the 2026 FIVB Volleyball Girls U17 World Championship after sweeping Tunisia, 27-25, 25-19, 25-16, in San Felipe, Chile on Sunday morning (Philippine time).

The young Nationals made it two wins in a row on the world stage, giving the country its best campaign in a volleyball world championship as they improved to a 2-1 record in Pool B, boosting their chances of advancing to the next round.

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Alas saved two set-point disadvantages in the opening frame, as Caera Celis and Xyz Rayco nailed the clutch equalizers to tie the frame at 25. Sharina Lleses sent the Philippines to set point before Rayco clinched the comeback to draw first blood.

Alas girls dominated the last two sets to continue their historic run after a breakthrough win over Mexico on Saturday.

Celis continued to shine bright with a game-high 15 points built on 13 kills and two blocks. Rayco chipped in 13 points, while Lleses added 10. Madele Gale and Khaira Manzano added six points apiece.

Alas takes a break on Monday before returning to action on Tuesday against Peru at 5 a.m.

Tunisia, which had no double-digit scorer, remained winless in three games. Khadija Louati and Hajer Karamosly paced the team with eight points each.