Bella Belen calls for Capital1 adjustments ahead of crucial knockout clash

Capital1 Solar Spikers star player Bella Belen emphasized the urgency of tightening their overall performance as they prepare for a high-stakes play-in showdown in the PVL All-Filipino Conference against the Galeries Tower Highrisers.

With Capital1 holding an even 4-5 record for eighth place and Galeries Tower trailing at 2-7 in ninth, the upcoming clash carries significant weight for both squads. 

The Solar Spikers find themselves in a must-win situation, and Belen made it clear that refining their execution will be key to extending their campaign.

“Siguro yung mindset lang namin is, ayun nga, must win na eh. So kung gusto namin makaabot ng series, kailangan mas puliduin pa namin yung galaw namin,” Belen, the former UAAP MVP said.

“And we all know naman na Galleries ulit yung kalaban namin. So siguro titignan namin kung ano yung pinerform namin this game. And then, ayun, mag-training kami tomorrow, tingnan namin kung ano pa yung pwede namin ma-improve para mas magpadali yung game namin on Tuesday against them,” she added.

Belen pointed to one of the team’s recurring struggles—falling behind early in matches—as a major concern that needs immediate correction. 

In their previous outing, slow starts allowed opponents to dictate the tempo, forcing Capital1 to play catch-up for most of the game.

“Siguro huwag yung nagpapauna kami ng ilang points. So siguro yun yung kailangan namin ma-improve, lalo na yung side-out game namin na kailangan… makakuha agad kami ng point. Ang baga, point by point lagi,” the 23-year-old outside hitter of Capital1 said.

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As the conference’s current top scorer with 218 total points, Belen has consistently delivered on offense, but she acknowledged that individual production alone won’t be enough. 

For Capital1 to survive the knockout round, a more cohesive team effort will be required on both ends of the court.

Interestingly, Belen’s transition into the professional ranks this 2026 season has further highlighted her evolution as more than just a prolific scorer. 

Beyond piling up points, she has taken on a growing leadership role—often seen directing teammates on the floor and helping stabilize the squad during tense stretches. 

Her ability to balance scoring with on-court guidance could prove crucial as Capital1 navigates its most pressure-filled game yet.

Capital1 and Galeries Tower are set to face off in a knockout play-in match, with the winner advancing to the next phase of the league.

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