VakifBank has secured their berth in the CEV Champions League Final Four by defeating Numia Vero Volley Milano in a gripping five-set quarterfinal match played on their home ground.
With the passionate support of 2,850 fans at VakifBank Spor Sarayı, the Turkish club demonstrated remarkable resilience and composure to clinch a hard-fought 3-2 victory.
VakifBank started strong, confidently winning the opening set. However, Milano quickly equalized the match. The home team regained momentum in the third set, but the Italian challengers rallied once more, pushing the contest to a decisive tie-break after a fiercely fought fourth set.
In the crucial final set, VakifBank maintained their composure under pressure, seizing pivotal opportunities to pull ahead in the late stages and ultimately secure the win.
Marina Markova spearheaded VakifBank’s offense, securing an impressive 23 points, which matched the output of Milano’s formidable Paola Egonu. Another significant contributor for VakifBank added 17 points.
This triumph marks VakifBank’s return to the Final Four, where they will aim to continue their quest for yet another Champions League title, cheered on by their home fans in Istanbul.
Match Result:
VakifBank Istanbul (TUR) def. Numia Vero Volley Milano (ITA) 3-2 (25-22, 16-25, 25-16, 23-25, 15-12)
