College of Saint Benilde survived a determined stand from Mapua University, pulling off a 25-18, 25-17, 25-27, 23-25, 15-13 victory to secure a semifinal berth in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Wednesday, September 10, at the Paco Arena in Manila.

The Lady Blazers improved to 4-2, sealing their fourth straight Final Four appearance since the league’s post-pandemic return.

Aya Densing delivers clutch performance

Leading the way was outside hitter Aya Densing, who erupted for 29 points on 27 attacks, a block, and an ace, while also contributing 12 digs. She came through in the tense moments, scoring back-to-back kills late in the fifth set before a key dig set up Zam Nolasco’s match-clinching hit.

Assistant coach Corrine Apostol credited the team’s resilience but noted the importance of consistency heading into the next stage. “Kaya natatalo sila kasi parang nagre-relax sila ’pag patapos na ’yung game. Pero ’yun ’yung something na dapat dalhin nila heading into the semifinals,” Apostol said.

Mapua pushes Benilde to the limit

Benilde initially appeared in control behind setter Chenae Basarte, who directed the offense smoothly to give her team a 2-0 cushion. But Mapua refused to go away, with Freighanne Garcia and Raissa Ricablanca fueling a comeback that forced a deciding frame.

In the end, the Lady Blazers’ composure held, punching their ticket to the Final Four with one elimination match still left on their schedule against Arellano University (3-3) on September 29.