The Philippines saw its historic campaign in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship come to a painful end after bowing to Iran in a five-set thriller, 21-25, 25-21, 17-25, 25-23, 22-20, on Thursday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
With a spot in the round of 16 at stake, the Filipinos held control for most of the match and reached match point six times in the deciding set, but the higher-ranked Iranians refused to yield.
The home crowd erupted when the Philippines thought it had closed the match at 20-18, but a successful net touch challenge by Iran overturned the point and shifted momentum.
Middle blocker Yousef Kazemi Poshtpari then sealed the victory with a match-winning block.
Team captain Bryan Bagunas led the Philippines with 22 points built on 18 kills, three blocks, and an ace, while Leo Ordiales added 21. Marck Espejo chipped in 15, and Kim Malabunga contributed 10.
Despite the loss, the Filipinos pushed the Asian powerhouse to the limit, twice taking the lead in sets before Iran rallied to secure second place in Pool A and advance to the knockout round.
Before facing Iran, the Alas Pilipinas clinched it's first historic win in the FIVB Worlds over Egypt.
