Alas Men Claim First Asian Games Win Over Uzbekistan

Alas Pilipinas Men finally secured their first win at the 2026 Asian Games after defeating Uzbekistan in four sets, 25-19, 25-15, 23-25, 25-17, in the classification round on Friday at Park Arena Komaki in Aichi, Japan.

The victory ended the Philippines’ losing run that began in the preliminary round and continued with a defeat to Indonesia in its classification opener.

Team captain Bryan Bagunas led Alas Men with 26 points, including 25 attacks and one service ace, while also contributing seven digs.

Joshua Magalaman chipped in 13 points, including six blocks, while Peng Taguibolos finished with 11 markers on six attacks, three blocks, and two aces.

Alas Men took control early, winning the opening two sets before Uzbekistan fought back to extend the match with a third-set victory.

The Filipinos responded in the fourth set and pulled away after Uzbekistan kept the score close at 13-12.

The Philippines then scored six straight points, with Bagunas, Owa Retamar, and Taguibolos contributing attacks while Uzbekistan committed errors to give Alas a 19-12 cushion.

Alas Men maintained their advantage the rest of the way to secure their first victory of the tournament.

Alas Men will face Kyrgyzstan on Saturday with 13th place at stake.