College of Saint Benilde overcame a gritty challenge from Mapua University in five thrilling sets, 25-18, 25-17, 25-27, 23-25, 15-13, to clinch a spot in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge semifinals on Wednesday at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center in Manila.
With the victory, the Lady Blazers improved to a 4-2 record, sealing their fourth consecutive Final Four appearance since the league’s post-pandemic return.
At the heart of their triumph was the steady brilliance of Aya Densing.
Densing fired 29 points built on 27 attacks, one block, and one ace, while also tallying 12 digs and two excellent receptions.
The outside hitter delivered the finishing blows with back-to-back kills when Mapua threatened late, before capping her stellar outing with a crucial dig that led to a middle kill from Zam Nolasco.
"Siguro 'yung lakas ng loob. Hindi ko masasabi na consistent 'yung lakas ng loob nila throughout the game," said assistant coach Corrine Apostol on what has kept her squad steady this season.
"Kaya natatalo sila kasi parang nagre-relax sila 'pag patapos na 'yung game. Pero 'yun 'yung something na dapat dalhin nila heading into the semifinals."
Benilde looked in complete control early, racing to a 2-0 lead behind the playmaking of setter Chenae Basarte, who dictated the tempo with precision.
But Mapua refused to fold, clawing back in the next two sets through its defensive grit at both the net and the floor, which fueled transition attacks for Freighanne Garcia and Raissa Ricablanca.
In the end, though, Densing, Nolasco, and the rest of the Lady Blazers proved steadier under pressure to punch their ticket to the semifinals, even with one more match left in the eliminations.
Benilde will aim to close the preliminary round on a high note when it faces Arellano University (3-3) on September 29 at 10 a.m.
