The Yellow Tigers start the second part of their summer campaign this week. After a successful first campaign, in which they secured participation in the World Championship next summer and reached the Final Four of the European Golden League, they now head to the Philippines for the Challenger Cup. Here, a revamped Belgium will give opportunities to the upcoming generation of players.

Goal: Volleyball Nations League

Winning in the Philippines means a direct ticket to the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) next summer. Although they are already 99% certain of a spot in the VNL thanks to their excellent position in the world rankings, winning remains an objective.

Changes in the Lineup

Silke Van Avermaet and Britt Herbots are taking a well-deserved rest after a long season and will not travel to the Philippines. Charlotte Krenicky will also not participate in the Challenger Cup due to a recent wrist surgery. These absences, however, provide opportunities for new talents to prove themselves.

Confrontation with Sweden

In the quarterfinals, the Tigers will face Sweden, an ideal chance for revenge after losing the semifinal of the European League. This will be the 11th encounter between the two teams in the past two summer campaigns. Coach Kris Vansnick notes, "Sweden has no secrets for us. Without their star player Isabella Haak, we definitely have a chance to put on a good performance against them. We hope to surprise them with some new faces in our lineup."

Do or Die

The first match is immediately crucial: if they lose, the Tigers will return to Belgium immediately, but if they win, they will reach the semifinals and at least compete for the bronze medal. "We head to the Challenger Cup with an open mind and will give 110% in every match," says Vansnick. "The Tigers have shown in the past that they are determined and resilient, and this tournament will be no different."

LIB: Britt Rampelberg, Noor Debouck

MB: Britt Fransen, Anna Koulberg, Anke Waelkens, Charline Humblet

OH: Manon Stragier, Kaat Cos, Nel Demeyer

OPP: Pauline Martin, Saar Bertels

S: Elise van Sas, Lien Van Geertruyden