The PLDT High Speed Hitters aim to pull off a breakthrough upset against Kazakhstan’s Zhetysu VC in the 2025 AVC Women’s Champions League quarterfinals.
The PLDT High Speed Hitters will be the first Filipino team to take the court in the knockout stage of the 2025 AVC Women’s Champions League as they battle Kazakhstan’s Zhetysu VC in a high-stakes quarterfinal matchup at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig on Thursday, April 24.
Zhetysu, a decorated nine-time Kazakhstan national champion, enters the playoffs on a hot streak, having swept Pool A that includes a dominant win over PVL powerhouse Creamline. Now, PLDT is looking to pull off a major upset and break new ground in the continental stage.
Despite a tough five-set loss to Thailand’s Nakhon Ratchasima in pool play, the High Speed Hitters proved they can go toe-to-toe with elite competition.
[ALSO READ: Kath Arado proud of PLDT’s fight against Nakhon Ratchasima in AVC Champions League]
Leading that charge was Savi Davison, who continues to be one of the team’s most reliable scoring options. Backing her up are Wilma Salas and Kianna Dy, while Kath Arado has anchored the team’s floor defense with consistency and composure.
[ALSO READ: Kianna Dy marks first start for PLDT in AVC win, says she’s ‘85 percent’ back to form]
A win over Zhetysu would not only be a breakthrough for PLDT, but it could also set up a potential all-Filipino semifinal showdown—depending on Creamline’s quarterfinal result.
Standing in their way is a veteran Zhetysu squad led by Karyna Denysova, Valeriya Yakutina, and Tatyana Nikitina—a trio known for their size, strength, and international experience.
With the quarterfinals serving as a make-or-break moment, the High Speed Hitters are determined to go all out in their quest to reach the final four of Asia’s top club volleyball competition.
[ALSO READ: Creamline, PLDT, Petro Gazz brace for tough quarterfinal matchups in AVC Champions League]
Tip-off for the first quarterfinal match is set for 4:00 p.m.
(With reports from Kiko Demigillo)
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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]