Iran thanks Alas Pilipinas Men, hopes for Filipinos' support in FIVB Worlds Round of 16

After an intense pool-phase match, the Iran Volleyball Federation expressed its gratitude to the Philippine team and called on Filipino fans to support Iran in the upcoming Round of 16 of the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship.

Iran edged out the Philippines in a thrilling five-set match, 21-25, 25-21, 17-25, 25-23, 22-20, to finish with two wins and one record in Pool A. The match swung in favor of Alas Pilipinas for a moment, but a crucial late challenge went Iran’s way, allowing them to secure the hard-fought victory.

“Maraming salamat, Pilipinas! Sobrang galing at puso ng Alas Pilipinas,” read a Filipino post from Iran Volleyball.

“Bilang nag-iisang kinatawan ng Asya sa Round of 16, sana suportahan ninyo ang Team Iran.”

Maraming salamat, Pilipinas! Sobrang galing at puso ng Alas Pilipinas. ???????? Bilang nag-iisang kinatawan ng Asya sa Round of 16, sana suportahan ninyo ang Team Iran. Salamat po at Mabuhay! ???????????? #WCH2025 #Manila #TeamIran #Alaspilipinas pic.twitter.com/cENUPzLhQW

— Iran Volleyball Federation (@IRIVF) September 18, 2025

Iran is now the only remaining team from the Asian Volleyball Confederation and is set to face Serbia in the next round.

Aside from Iran, Pool A top team Tunisia will also advance to the next round where it will face Czechia.

The Philippines, meanwhile, finished third in the pool with a 1-2 record.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News