Istanbul’s Titans, VakıfBank, Clinch a Victory Against Volley Mulhouse Alsace
VakıfBank, the consecutive reigning champions of the CEV Champions League, have started their 2023-2024 CEV Champions League campaign with a resounding victory over French team Volley Mulhouse Alsace, in a match that ended in a straight-set win (3-0) at the VakıfBank Sports Palace.
From the outset, VakıfBank showcased their championship pedigree by dominating the proceedings and winning the first set 25-22, following a competitive start. They continued their relentless form by clinching the second set with a commanding 25-13 scoreline.
The final set proved to be a thrilling affair, with the yellow and blacks edging out their opponents 29-27, thus securing a perfect start in Group A of the Champions League.
Ali Frantti was the standout player for VakıfBank, scoring 13 points, while teammates Jordan Thompson and Gabi, the match’s most valuable player, both hit double figures with 10 points apiece.
Post-match comments from VakıfBank’s head coach, Giovanni Guidetti, expressed satisfaction with the result despite acknowledging the need for improvement. Ali Frantti echoed the excitement of the victory, describing her debut in the Champions League with VakıfBank as a ‘surreal moment’ and ‘a dream come true.
In Other News: Eczacıbaşı Dynavit and Savino Del Bene Scandicci Record Convincing Wins
Eczacıbaşı Dynavit also made a strong start in Pool B with a straight-set victory against Vasas Obuda Budapest. The orange and white’s impressive performance included a comeback in the first set to win 27-25 and a steady continuation to win the second and third sets, 25-21 and 25-17, respectively.
In Pool B’s second game, after a lengthy hiatus, Savino Del Bene Scandicci marked their return to the CEV Champions League with a stellar 3-0 win over Maritza Plovdiv. Britt Herbots and Ekaterina Antropova led the charge with exceptional individual performances, ensuring a solid start for the team in this year’s championship.
Furthermore, CS Volei Alba Blaj emerged victorious in their Pool E match against LKS Commercecon Łódź, claiming a 3-1 win and setting the stage for an exciting Champions League season ahead.
Pool A
Pool B
Pool E
