Tots Carlos unlikely to play for Alas Pilipinas in FIVB Challenger Cup, says De Brito

Alas Pilipinas Women may have to play in the 2024 FIVB Challenger Cup next month without one of the highly-anticipated aces in Tots Carlos, who has yet to attend the team's training with only days left before their new campaign. 

Alas head coach Jorge De Brito, however, revealed that the troika of Bella Belen, Alyssa Solomon, and Jema Galanza have attended practices, but shared Solomon remains in recovery from a previous injury she sustained following National University's championship run in UAAP Season 86. 

"She’s (Tots Carlos) always been the one who we requested for us for the national team. But at the moment, she’s not there," De Brito said on the sidelines of the VNL Manila Leg. 

"Rebisco will release something [about her status]. What we’re expecting is to bring the guys who are really good at the same time."

Belen, Solomon, and Galanza will boost an already-stacked roster that features the likes of Jia De Guzman, Angel Canino, Eya Laure, and Sisi Rondina. And with that depth, along their improved chemistry, De Brito is beaming with confidence that they can surpass their bronze medal finish in the AVC Challenge Cup.

"What I can say is they are much better now. It wasn’t luck at that moment (in the AVC Challenge Cup) but it’s a short time for preparation," the Brazilian tactician added.

"We'll have more [preparation this time] so we can offer much more. I think that’s the way we have to do and expect for this team."

Serving as hosts anew, the Philippines will take on powerhouse Vietnam in the quarterfinals of the Challenger Cup, which will serve as a qualification for next year's VNL edition. 

The winner of that match will then slug it out against either Czech Republic or Argentina in the semifinals round. 

"The expectations are supposed to be always high so we have to work really hard and not just stand there, waiting for the guys to repeat the performance (in the AVC Challenge Cup)."

"It’s always hard, but we’re prepared to go against Vietnam."

—JKC, GMA Integrated News