Eli Soyud banks on “tiyaga at pasensiya” as Akari faces Creamline in must-win PVL game

The conclusion of the Holy Week break in the Philippines signals a highly anticipated return to action in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), as the intensity ramps up in the ongoing All-Filipino Conference. With semifinal spots on the line, four teams are set to clash in the Play-In round, where every possession, rally, and point carries significant weight.

Among the marquee matchups is a compelling showdown between perennial contenders Creamline Cool Smashers and the rising Akari Chargers—a duel that has drawn considerable attention from fans of the country’s premier volleyball league. Creamline, widely regarded as a dynasty in Philippine volleyball, enters the contest with a wealth of championship experience, while Akari continues to build its identity as a formidable challenger eager to break through.

At the center of Akari’s campaign is star opposite hitter Eli Soyud, who fully recognizes the magnitude of the challenge ahead. Facing a battle-tested squad like Creamline, Soyud emphasized the importance of discipline, resilience, and mental toughness. Still, she remains confident in her team’s preparation and belief in one another.

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“Siyempre, champion team sila. Mahirap silang kalaban lalo na sa ganitong mga crucial games kasi mas experienced sila sa amin. Ang magiging puhunan talaga namin is tiyaga at pasensiya,” Soyud said in a media interaction.

WATCH: Akari coach Tina Salak, Eli Soyud, and Ivy Lacsina on surviving Choco Mucho. #PVL2026 | @LanceAgcaoilINQ pic.twitter.com/NSHRKCEx8N

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The Chargers head into the Play-In round riding the momentum of a hard-fought victory over the Choco Mucho Flying Titans, a match that showcased both their grit and composure under pressure. In a thrilling five-set encounter held at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on March 28, Akari prevailed, 25-15, 23-15, 25-16, 15-25, 21-19, to keep their semifinal aspirations alive.

Soyud pointed to that emotionally charged win as a defining moment for the team, highlighting how composure and communication became crucial factors in overcoming adversity—especially in the deciding fifth set where tension ran high.

“Yung pagiging kalmado, kasi kapag kalmado ang lahat, mas nakakapag-isip. Nanoon ‘yung composure namin, mas naririning namin ‘yung teammates at coaches, so mas okay kalmado. ‘Yun ‘yung ginawa namin – pinakalma namin ang isa’t isa kahit na napakaignay na,” she added.

For Akari, the upcoming clash is more than just a game—it is an opportunity to prove that they can compete with the league’s elite and translate their steady progress into a deep postseason run. On the other side, Creamline will look to assert its dominance and remind the league why it remains the gold standard in the PVL.

The stakes could not be higher as the Chargers and the Cool Smashers collide in their do-or-die Play-In encounter scheduled for Tuesday, April 7, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre. With a coveted semifinal berth hanging in the balance, fans can expect a high-intensity battle marked by experience, hunger, and unwavering determination.

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