Pepito set for Solar Spikers debut as Nxled faces Capital1 in Vigan

Nxled looks to bounce back from its opening loss as it takes on a Capital1 side missing several key players when the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour Showdown resumes Saturday at the Chavit Coliseum in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur.

The 4 p.m. match marks the debut of 2026 Rookie Draft No. 2 overall pick Detdet Pepito for the Solar Spikers after a two-week tournament break.

Capital1 will be without Alas Pilipinas standouts Bella Belen, Vanie Gandler, and Erika Santos due to national team commitments, placing the spotlight on its younger players while relying on a solid frontcourt rotation.

The Solar Spikers still boast a formidable middle unit composed of Cherry Nunag, Ezra Madrigal, KC Galdones, Pauline Gaston, and Pia Abbu.

Pepito, one of the country's most decorated collegiate liberos, will join Roma Mae Doromal and Rachel Jorvina to strengthen Capital1's floor defense.

Second-round rookie Khy Cepada is also expected to see an expanded role on the wings alongside Trisha Genesis, Ysa Jimenez, Leila Cruz, Sydney Niegos, and France Ronquillo.

Nxled counters with a deep roster led by middle blockers Jackie Acuña, MJ Phillips, Krich Macaslang, Aduke Ogunsanya, and veteran Aby Maraño.

On the wings, the Chameleons will lean on Brooke Van Sickle, Myla Pablo, Jonah Escamillan, and Lyann De Guzman, while Chiara Permentilla and EJ Laure provide additional scoring options.

Nxled enters the match seeking its first win after falling to Creamline in four sets during its tournament opener in Ilagan City on July 9.

The 6:30 p.m. nightcap features defending On Tour champion PLDT opening its campaign against Choco Mucho.

The High Speed Hitters return with a veteran core bannered by Savi Davison, Kim Dy, Kath Arado, and Majoy Baron, while rookies and newcomers Fianne Ariola and Joan Monares are expected to make immediate contributions.

PLDT aims to build on last year's successful On Tour campaign, which culminated in the PVL Invitational championship.

Choco Mucho, meanwhile, remains without national team members Sisi Rondina, Eya Laure, and Dawn Catindig, increasing the responsibilities of rookie Tin Ubaldo, Isa Molde, Jewel Encarnacion, Kat Tolentino, Caitlin Viray, and Dindin Manabat.

According to Tiger Score sportsbook, PLDT is favored by 2.5 sets, while the total points line is set at 135.5.

The PVL On Tour Showdown heads to Polomolok, South Cotabato, on Aug. 1, where Nxled will face Galeries Tower before Akari takes on Choco Mucho.

ZUS Coffee currently leads the standings with back-to-back victories over Akari and Choco Mucho, while Creamline and Galeries Tower are close behind after the Highrisers' four-set victory over Farm Fresh.