Capital1 sweeps Choco Mucho to clinch Pool A berth in PVL Reinforced Conference

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Capital1 delivered its most convincing performance of the season, sweeping Choco Mucho, 25-23, 26-24, 25-19, to seal a Pool A berth in the PVL Reinforced Conference Tuesday night, November 4, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The Solar Spikers flipped the script from their preseason loss in October, imposing their pace and identity from the opening serve to close the prelims at 3-2.

The win not only avenged their all-Filipino defeat earlier this month but solidified Capital1’s rise, backed by sharper execution, defensive discipline, and a renewed collective urgency. After sweeping Cignal in their previous outing, the Solar Spikers made another statement, proving they have the depth and maturity to challenge the league’s established contenders.

Import Sasha Bytsenko took charge late and finished with 17 points, sealing the sweep with a clever drop shot that froze the Flying Titans’ defense. “I’m proud of this team,” she said. “Every game we grow, not just in tactics, but in energy.”

Bella Belen leads the local charge with clutch swings and steady defense. [PVL Images]

Belen leads locals as Capital1 locks in

Rookie standout Bella Belen continued her strong debut campaign with 11 points, anchoring the Solar Spikers in a pivotal second set that broke Choco Mucho’s momentum and turned the match. Chel Austero added eight, while Leila Cruz and Pia Abbu chipped in six apiece as Capital1 executed with balance and composure.

The Solar Spikers stayed aggressive and disciplined in key stretches, converting crucial rallies and tightening coverage to neutralize Choco Mucho’s late-set pushes. Even after losing Belen briefly to a hard fall and later seeing Austero exit with an ankle injury, the squad held firm and closed with authority.

Flying Titans fade as Solar Spikers surge

Choco Mucho slipped to 2-3 and dropped into the group facing Pool B’s top three teams — ZUS Coffee, Creamline, and Akari — in the next phase. Marlee Smith led with 12 points, while Maddie Madayag and Isa Molde added 11 and 10, but the Flying Titans struggled to break Capital1’s rhythm and finishing kick in all three sets.

Capital1 advances carrying its 3-2 record, backed by consecutive sweeps and a surging identity built on system trust, floor defense, and rising confidence. With poise under pressure and a roster capable of stepping up in big moments, the Solar Spikers now enter the next round with momentum — and a growing reputation as a dangerous contender.