Ateneo de Manila University bounced back with a sweep of Arellano University, 26-24, 25-18, 25-22, to secure solo fourth place in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Sunday, September 7, at the Paco Arena Events and Sports Center in Manila.

The Blue Eagles, coming off a tough loss to La Salle the previous day, found stability through skipper Jian Salarzon and spiker Amil Pacinio to keep their semifinal hopes alive in the eight-team tournament.

Salarzon delivered 14 points on 10 attacks, three blocks, and one ace while also tallying 11 receptions and four digs. Pacinio added 12 points on 11 kills and one block, as Ateneo wrapped up eliminations with a 4-3 record and 12 points.

Ateneo eliminates NU, Arellano bows out winless

With the victory, Ateneo officially eliminated defending UAAP champion NU from semifinal contention. The Bulldogs, stuck at 2-3 with only four points, can no longer match Ateneo’s 12.

“Sinabi ko lang na okay na ba tayo sa pagkatalo natin? Wala na ba tayo ibang gagawin? Pinaisip ko lang sila kung ano ba dapat yung kailangan gawin na response coming from a loss. Nag-respond naman sila,” said Blue Eagles head coach Vince Mangulabnan.

Ateneo leaned on timely blocks from rookie Pao Medino and consistent scoring from Salarzon and Pacinio to thwart Arellano’s rallies.

The Chiefs, reigning NCAA champions, closed out their campaign winless at 0-7, taking only four sets across the elimination round. Arman Gunito led the losing side with 15 points, while Jiwen Sinuto added nine.