Eli Soyud and the Akari Chargers. PVL Media Bureau
MANILA — Akari’s Eli Soyud knows the challenge ahead as the Chargers face Creamline for a semifinals berth in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference.
Soyud acknowledged the Cool Smashers’ edge in experience, saying Akari will rely on hard work and patience to stay competitive in the crucial showdown.
"Siyempre, champion team sila. Mahirap silang kalaban lalo na sa ganitong mga crucial games kasi mas experienced sila sa amin. Ang magiging puhunan talaga namin is tiyaga at pasensiya," said the former PVL Press Corps Most Improved Player awardee.
READ: PVL: Akari outlasts Choco Mucho in nail-biting five-set battle to stay alive
Akari kept its campaign alive after outlasting Creamline’s sister team Choco Mucho in a dramatic five-set battle, 25-15, 23-25, 25-16, 15-25, 21-19, on March 28 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
The victory underscored the Chargers’ composure and patience, qualities Soyud emphasized following the win.
"’Yung pagiging kalmado, kasi kapag kalmado ang lahat, mas nakakapag-isip. Nandoon ‘yung composure namin, mas naririnig namin ‘yung teammates at coaches, so mas okay kapag kalmado," said Soyud, who finished with 18 points.
"’Yun ‘yung ginawa namin—pinakalma namin ang isa’t isa kahit na napakaingay na," she added.
Akari and Creamline will face off for a semifinals spot as PVL play-in action resumes on April 7.
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