Manila: De La Salle University is set to strengthen its quest for a semifinals advantage as it faces Ateneo de Manila University in the second round of eliminations in the UAAP Season 87 women's volleyball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday. The Lady Spikers will take on the Blue Eagles at 1 p.m.

According to Philippines News Agency, La Salle currently maintains a 6-3 record, giving them a slight lead over Far Eastern University (6-4) in the competition for the second twice-to-beat spot in the semifinals. National University, leading the standings with a 9-1 record, has already secured the semifinal bonus. La Salle is hopeful that Angel Canino will recover in time to play against Ateneo after suffering a head injury in a previous match against UST.

La Salle assistant coach Noel Orcullo emphasized the team's focus on preparation and consistency, stating, "We will not neglect anything, we will still focus on what to learn and how we can stop Ateneo." Meanwhile, Ateneo, holding a 4-5 record and ranked sixth, is also eager to secure a spot in the semifinals. The Blue Eagles are coming off a win against Adamson University, with coach Sergio Veloso highlighting the importance of team understanding and preparation for the upcoming match.

In other matches, University of Santo Tomas (5-4) will face Adamson University (3-6) at 3 p.m. The Tigresses are currently ahead of the fifth-ranked University of the Philippines (5-5) in the race for the final semifinals berth.