Tunisia spoiled a grand FIVB worlds welcome to the Alas Pilipinas. Cesca Rampas
By Jonathan Salvacion

PASAY—Backed by a roaring home crowd, Alas Pilipinas fought with grit and determination but ultimately fell short as Tunisia secured a straight-set victory, 25-13, 25-17, 25-23, at the start of the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Friday night.

Tunisia asserted control early, racing to an 8-1 lead in the opening frame through sharp attacks, a service ace, and several Philippine miscues.

Bryan Bagunas tried to steady the ship with six points in the set, supported by Marck Espejo and Peng Taguibolos, but the visitors’ blocking and consistency at the net proved too much.

Tunisia widened the gap to 20-10 before sealing the first set with a spike from captain and setter Ben Slimene.

The North Africans carried that momentum into the second set, leaning on quick attacks and steady defense to keep Alas on its heels.

Bagunas and Espejo continued to deliver offensively, yet the Filipinos struggled to string points together as service errors and attack miscues piled up.

There were bright moments—Retamar’s block, a huge team rejection at the net, and a late service ace from newcomer Buddin—but Tunisia’s efficiency never wavered.

They pulled away down the stretch to take the second set.

The third set was the most competitive, with Alas starting strong behind Espejo’s opening ace and Bagunas’ explosive scoring from the wing.

Bagunas added back-to-back aces and multiple kills, while Kim Malabunga and Retamar chipped in timely points to keep the hosts in striking distance.

The two sides traded blows late, with Bagunas tying the set at 23-all to ignite the home crowd.

But Tunisia once again had the answers.

The visitors responded with composure, converting consecutive attacks to shut the door, 25-23, and complete the sweep.

For Bryan Bagunas, it was not an ideal start for Alas.

He admitted that the team lacked communication during the match, which he attributed to the pressure that may have weighed heavily on his teammates.

Nevertheless, Bagunas expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent the country on the world stage, finishing the game with a team-high 23 points.

Alas will play Egypt next on Sept. 16, 5:30 p.m., still at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.