Manila: The University of Santo Tomas secured the second semifinal berth in the 2025 V-League Men's Collegiate Challenge after rallying past Far Eastern University, 19-25, 25-23, 25-15, 25-17 at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center in Manila on Saturday.

According to Philippines News Agency, opposite hitter Al-Bukharie Sali registered a game-high 29 points off 26 attacks, two blocks, and one ace as the Golden Spikers improved their win-loss record to 5-1. JJ Macam and GBoy De Vega backed him up with 13 and 12 points, respectively.

"The difference there, in the second set, was that they played as a team. That's what's important, to play as a team, no matter who you play against," UST assistant coach Benjamin Mape said after the one-hour and 51-minute match.

The Golden Spikers will next face unbeaten De La Salle University (5-0), the first team to reach the semifinals, on Oct. 1 after a tournament break for the 2025 FIVB Men's World Volleyball Championship. "We'll use this game to motivate their personal mindset that they can do it, even though the opponents we face are pretty strong. As long as we believe in the program, in the play, in the coaches' instructions, we will go far," Mape added.

For FEU, Dryx Saavedra and Amet Samuel Bituin scored 13 points each, while Mikko Espartero had 10 markers plus 11 receptions. Doula Ndongala chipped in eight points, and Vennie Ceballos led the defense with 22 receptions. The Tamaraws will try to bounce back against De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde (1-4) at 5 p.m. on Sunday.