The CEV ZEREN Group Champions League Volley 2026 | Women kicks off its group stage next week, and Pool A is shaping up to be one of the toughest brackets of the tournament. Featuring VakifBank Istanbul, Savino Del Bene Scandicci, CS Volei Alba Blaj, and Volero Le Cannet, the pool brings together some of Europe’s biggest volleyball names.
VakifBank, the six-time Champions League winners, return after a rare fourth-place finish last season. With major new signings, most notably Serbian superstar Tijana Bošković, the Turkish giants are focused on reclaiming their spot at the top.
Last year’s finalists, Savino Del Bene Scandicci, enter with momentum and an impressive group-stage record. Led by top scorer Ekaterina Antropova and veteran setter Maja Ognjenovic, the Italian side aims to prove last season’s run was no coincidence.
Romania’s CS Volei Alba Blaj are back after a year away, bringing a history of deep European Cup appearances and a diverse roster under coach Guillermo Naranjo Hernandez. They hope to convert past near-misses into a strong Champions League performance.
Completing the group, France’s Volero Le Cannet arrive confident after winning their qualifying matches. With experienced coach Marco Fenoglio and a multi-national squad, they’ll look to shake up the pool despite stiff competition.
As play begins, Pool A promises high-intensity matchups, and plenty of drama, making it one of the must-watch groups of the season.