National University kicked off its campaign in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge with a gritty five-set win over a tough Arellano University squad, eking out a 25-18, 23-25, 25-20, 21-25, 15-9 decision on Saturday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
In a clash between two reigning collegiate champions, the five-time UAAP titleholders survived a rollercoaster battle of power, resilience and poise, emerging on top after two hours of intense action to launch their title bid for a second V-League crown in four years.
Mac Bandola led the Bulldogs with 18 points built on 17 attacks, while Jan Abanilla added 13 , including a pair of clutch spikes that swung the momentum late in the match.
However, it was newly-appointed team captain Choi Diao who made the difference when it mattered most. The middle blocker anchored the Bulldogs’ net defense and delivered the match-clinching point – a powerful middle hit on NU’s first counterattack opportunity in the decisive fifth set.
In the first set, both teams battled closely as first-day jitters rattled their nerves. NU eventually found its rhythm leaning on its trademark net defense and floor coverage as their primary strategy, enabling them to build a 19-14 cushion on Abanilla’s ace.
But the Chiefs refused to go down and fought back behind Bandola’s powerful blast and Diao’s block as NU closed out with 6-4 riun to gain the head-start.
Arellano, however, battled back in the next frame as AC Guinto, one of their key holdovers from that title run in NCAA Season 100, spearheaded the Chiefs’ strong start, 10-3.
Though the Bulldogs recovered and even grabbed the lead, 21-20, behind the troika of Bandola, Diao and Obed Mukaba and incoming rookie, Luke Macatangay, the Chiefs proved clutch with Cj Domiguito delivering with a decisive finish in transition.
With the Chiefs keeping the game close, Bandola showcased the form that netted him the UAAP Season 82 High School Boys’ Finals MVP honors. A cross-court hit and a kill off an overpass keyed the Bulldogs’ strong finishing kick and into a 2-1 set lead.
The NCAA titleholders, however, kept coming back as Guinto and skipper Jiwen Sinuto took charge for the Chiefs, pouring in most of their combined 33 points in that stretch.
Sinuto finished with a game-high 21 points on 19 attacks, one block, and one ace, while Guinto produced 12 markers, including three blocks.
NU will take on De La Salle University on Tuesday at 12 noon at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center.
Arellano, however, will have the first crack at the same squad on Sunday, at 3 p.m. at the same venue.
