Turkish powerhouse VakifBank Istanbul came from two sets down to defeat Vero Volley Milano 3–2 in the first leg of their CEV Women’s Champions League quarterfinal at Allianz Cloud in Milan.
The Italian side started strongly, winning the first two sets 26–24 and 25–22, powered by Paola Egonu, who delivered a match-high 38 points.
VakifBank responded with an impressive comeback. Led by Marina Markova, who scored 38 points and earned MVP honors, the Turkish team claimed the third and fourth sets 25–22 to force a tie-break. VakifBank then controlled the decisive set to secure a 15–11 victory. Tijana Boskovic added 21 points and Helena Cazaute contributed 17 for the visitors.
For Milano, Egonu led all scorers with 38 points, while Anna Danesi, Elena Pietrini and Hena Kurtagic each finished with 10 points.
The return leg will be played on March 19 in Istanbul, where VakifBank will try to secure a place in the Champions League Final Four.