Akari Survives Five-Set Thriller, Keeps Semifinal Hopes Alive

Akari fought tooth and nail in a tense five-set showdown against Choco Mucho, securing a dramatic 25-15, 23-25, 25-16, 15-25, 21-19 victory on Saturday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium to keep their semifinals dreams alive in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference.

Facing elimination, Akari kept their composure under pressure, especially in the nail-biting fifth set. Choco Mucho seemed to be on the brink of stealing the win, leading 17-16 with a stunning hit from setter Tia Andaya and a crucial block from Kat Tolentino against Ivy Lacsina. But Akari bounced back with timely plays from Lacsina and Eli Soyud to turn the tide in their favor.

Lacsina responded with a critical cross-court hit and Soyud came up with a block on Eya Laure to regain match point at 18-17. The drama continued as Tolentino hammered back-to-back attacks to level the score at 19-all. The match’s momentum swung when Choco Mucho’s Lorraine Pecaña committed a costly service error, giving Akari a lifeline. Soyud’s decisive serve then broke through Choco Mucho’s defense, sealing the win and keeping Akari’s semifinal hopes intact.

Akari head coach Tina Salak was full of praise for her team after the victory. “Honestly, I’m really proud of the team. We made the adjustments we needed, and the players showed their will to fight through every moment. That determination pushed us to the next level.”

Lacsina delivered a spectacular triple-double performance, finishing with 30 points, including 28 attacks, one ace, and one kill block, alongside 27 excellent receptions and 10 digs. Soyud was also pivotal in the win, contributing 18 points, five blocks, and two aces. Fifi Sharma added 13 points, while Grethcel Soltones chipped in 11 points along with 23 excellent receptions, proving her versatility in both offense and defense.

Mars Alba orchestrated the offense with 21 excellent sets and five points, while team captain Justine Jazareno was solid on defense with 28 excellent receptions.

Choco Mucho, who had recently come off a thrilling five-set win against ZUS Coffee, showed resilience in the fourth set and threatened to extend the match into a longer decider. Sisi Rondina, the league's top scorer, was held to 13 points but made a significant impact with 20 excellent receptions. Laure, who had missed the first set, finished with 20 points, including 17 attacks, three blocks, 12 receptions, and 11 digs. Tolentino contributed 19 points with 16 attacks and three blocks.

With this win, Akari keeps their semifinal hopes alive and will now shift focus to their upcoming matches as they look to continue their momentum in the tournament.