Reigning Korean V-League champion head coach Fabio Storti of Cheonan Hyundai Capital is expecting a stiff challenge from the Philippine men’s national volleyball team, Alas Pilipinas, in their pocket tournament clash on Wednesday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.
Storti, who guided the Skywalkers to their fifth Korean V-League title in the 2024–25 season, anticipates that their friendly match against Alas — led by team captain Marck Espejo, Steven Rotter, and Owa Retamar — will mirror their recent hard-fought four-set loss to Thailand’s national team.
“I expect tomorrow’s match to be similar to our game against Thailand,” said Storti, referring to Hyundai’s 22-25, 26-24, 19-25, 21-25 defeat to the Thais on Tuesday to open the Invitational tournament.
“I’m pretty happy with how we approached that match. Of course, we struggled to maintain our focus throughout, which is normal since we just arrived a few days ago and had to immediately shift into tournament mode. But overall, I’m pleased. I hope we can give a better performance against the Philippine national team.”
Storti also spoke with Alas Pilipinas head coach Angiolino Frigoni during Tuesday’s pre-tournament press conference, giving him insight into the direction of men’s volleyball in the Philippines.
More than preparing for a competitive match, Storti expressed support for his fellow Italian tactician and emphasized the significance of Hyundai’s presence in the tournament as part of Alas Pilipinas’ buildup for the country’s historic hosting of the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship.
The Philippines is set to face off against 31 of the world’s top volleyball teams in that tournament, including heavyweights like the United States, Japan, and Italy.
“Yes, we met earlier and had a great conversation. He told me about his experience here in the Philippines, and he’s absolutely positive about it,” said Storti.
“He’s embracing the challenge ahead of the World Championship. I wish him and the entire Philippine team all the best.”
Despite showing mutual respect and support for Frigoni, Storti remains focused on his own squad — a young Skywalkers lineup composed mostly of players who didn’t see significant action during Hyundai’s championship run.
With rising stars Seung Jun Lee and Jae Hyun Lee leading the charge, the Skywalkers are looking to bounce back on Wednesday when they face Indonesia’s Proliga defending champions, Jakarta Bhayangkara Presisi, at the same time and venue.
“I can speak for my team — we have a lot of young players who lack experience since they didn’t get much playing time during our season,” Storti admitted.
“I’m focused on my players because there’s so many things to take care of and improve on. If we can do something better, especially at our service situation and in the reception, I’ll be a bit happy.”
#WATCH: Cheonan Hyundai Capital coach Fabio Storti excited to face fellow Italian mentor Angiolino Frigoni and Alas Pilipinas tomorrow!
📹 @ernesttuazon /Tiebreaker Times#AlasInvitationals pic.twitter.com/AIrbA9rEMS
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) June 10, 2025
