Alas Pilipinas Men in action against Iran at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship, September 18, 2025. Mark Demayo, ABS-CBN News
MANILA — The Alas Pilipinas Men have earned the respect of Iran men's national volleyball team coach Roberto Piazza.
Piazza's wards almost suffered an upset at the hands of valiant Alas Men, who fought with their hearts out in front of a loud Mall of Asia Arena and nearly clinched a Round of 16 spot at their expense at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship.
As it turned out, the World No. 16 Iranians walked off with a 21-25, 25-21, 17-25, 25-23, 22-20, highlighted by a game-changing, momentum-killing net fault challenge that became successful late in the game on Thursday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
READ: Na-Miss Universe? Marck Espejo still proud of Alas Men despite falling short vs. Iran
Alas Men's efforts didn't go unnoticed, as Piazza tipped his hat to the host nation's heroes who almost ousted his team in the biggest stage of men's volleyball.
"Philippines played an amazing game. They deserve to be in the first 16 teams like us because two points cannot change the game," said Piazza.
Piazza said the Philippines played "perfectly" against them, but lamented about how his players were "afraid" while in action.
READ: FIVB Worlds: Heartbreaker as gallant Alas Pilipinas Men fall to higher-ranked Iran
"Now, we have to think about the future. But today, we were afraid to play sometimes. The Philippines was perfect on the court," he said.
The Italian mentor also gave his praises to compatriot Angiolino Frigoni, who is handling the Filipino spikers.
"I need to congratulate my colleague from Italia, Angiolino [Frigoni]. He did an amazing job. This guy has proven a lot. I’m happy because I am in front, at the same time, I’m not happy because Angiolino lost."
Team Iran faces Serbia in the Round of 16 on Tuesday, September 23.
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