Leo Ordiales claps back at critics with heroic performance in Philippines’ first FIVB win

On a raucous Tuesday night at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, the Philippines etched its name in volleyball history. Alas Pilipinas Men stunned African champion Egypt in four thrilling sets — 29–27, 23–25, 25–21, 25–21 — to capture its maiden victory at the FIVB Men’s World Championship and keep its knockout-stage hopes alive.

The triumph was more than just a scoreline. It marked the first time in the federation’s 64-year history that a Philippine men’s team not only competed but also won on volleyball’s biggest stage.

Outside hitter Leo Ordiales delivered a breakout performance, bouncing back from a lackluster showing in Alas’ opener against Tunisia. The 22-year-old tallied 21 points, built on 19 attacks and three aces, to complement veteran Bryan Bagunas on offense.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

Ordiales admitted he had been stung by criticism after the Tunisia loss but was determined to respond.

LEO ORDIALES! THANK YOU!!!!

Leo Ordiales in tears after contributing heavily in historic win of Alas Pilipinas vs Egypt at #WCH2025. What a redemption from last outing’s performance. #AlasPilipinas pic.twitter.com/x34rpIgyOg

— Karl Cedrick Basco (@cedrickkbasco) September 16, 2025

“I am very happy, since I not only contributed to today’s game, but we also won. Everything feels twice as rewarding today, and I am just really happy. Plus, we keep our chances of making the Round of 16 alive. After that game, I made sure to reset my mentality — starting from scratch all over again,” Ordiales said in a media interaction.

“I’m just really happy that we won, and that I redeemed myself after that first game. Redemption plus victory — that’s everything for me.”

Often compared to Philippine volleyball icons Bryan Bagunas and Marck Espejo, Ordiales brushed off the parallels, emphasizing his role as a learner alongside the veterans.

“I’m just fulfilling my role. I’m still their student, and I’m absorbing all the knowledge I can from them. I always think Alas shouldn’t just be about Marck and Bryan — I also need to help them.”

Alas’ victory over Egypt propelled the team 11 spots up the FIVB world rankings, from No. 88 to No. 77. The Filipinos now brace for a do-or-die clash against world No. 14 Iran in their final Pool A match on Thursday, September 18, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City — with a coveted spot in the Round of 16 on the line.

👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and join the community of passionate basketball fans.