Croatia has achieved an impressive six consecutive victories against Spain since 2022, securing their latest win with a 3-0 scoreline (25, 22, 23) after 97 minutes of play. This victory crowns Croatia as the undefeated leaders of the Golden European League, earning them a place in the Final Four in Osijek in two weeks.
The first set was tightly contested, with no team gaining more than a 2-point lead. Spain had two set points, but Croatia clinched the set with a decisive block by Jakopec and an ace by Zeljković.
In the second set, Spain led several times by 3 points but couldn’t maintain their advantage. Croatia took control with a 3-0 run and sealed the set with another block.
Spain fought hard in the third set, hoping to keep their Final Four hopes alive. Despite leading 10-7, Croatia regained momentum midway through and won the set 25-23, completing a clean sweep.
Statistically, Croatia had 44 attack points to Spain’s 41, 9 blocks to 6, and 5 aces to 4. Both teams committed 19 errors each. Petar Đirlić led the scoring with 18 points, followed by Ivan Zeljković with 13 (including 4 aces).
Captain Petar Đirlić expressed satisfaction with their performance but emphasized the need for further improvement ahead of the Final Four. Coach Igor Juričić praised the team’s confidence-building victories and stressed the importance of preparation for the upcoming matches in Osijek.
