Far Eastern University (FEU) opened its title defense on a winning note, fending off a gritty Mapua University side, 25-19, 25-22, 25-15, in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Saturday at Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City.

Down 17-20 in the second set, the Tamaraws took control at the net, turning their defense into offense to erase the deficit and eventually take the crucial frame, with rookie Joshua Idong coming to life.

The reigning champions then needed just 20 minutes to wrap up the victory, with ace and newly installed captain Dryx Saavedra leading the way in FEU’s season debut before putting the match away with an ace.

Meanwhile, De La Salle University captured an important win, booking a second straight victory over Arellano University, 25-21, 25-21, 25-20, in the first game.

With just a one-point lead, 16-15, heading into the endgame, the Green Spikers leaned on their net defense to deny the Chiefs a comeback and eventually finish the match in one hour and 21 minutes.

Cameroonian outside hitter Issa Ousseini was all over the stat sheet with 18 points, built on 14 attacks and four blocks, leading the way in giving new head coach Babes Castillo a homecoming gift.

“Maybe the players just prefer having smooth movement, solid defense, and effective counter-attacks. We just need to clean up our serve-receive. That’s where we will focus,” said FEU head coach Eddieson Orcullo.

Mikko Espartero was steady on both sides of the court for FEU, producing 14 points on 13 attacks and a block, while also adding two digs and five excellent receptions.

Saavedra finished with 13 markers, including 10 attacks and the match-clinching ace, along with nine digs, while starting setter Rhodson Du-ot tallied 20 excellent sets and five digs.

The Tamaraws will go for a weekend sweep when they face the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde Blazers the next day at 10 a.m.

Ar-Jay Ramos was the lone Cardinal in double figures with 19 points, to go with nine digs and 14 excellent receptions, but Mapua slipped to 0-3.