Galatasaray Daikin Istanbul moved a step closer to the CEV Volleyball Cup 2026 Women’s final after a dominant 3–0 win (25–14, 25–15, 25–19) over CSO Voluntari 2005 in the first leg of the semi-final at Burhan Felek Volleyball Hall.
The Turkish side controlled the match from the start against Romanian team. After an even opening, Galatasaray pulled away in the first set with a strong run and comfortably took it 25–14.
Voluntari tried to stay close early in the second set, but Galatasaray’s serve pressure and solid defense proved decisive again. The hosts extended their lead late in the set before closing it 25–15 to move within one set of victory.
Galatasaray then stormed into the third set with an 8–0 start, setting the tone for the rest of the frame. Although Voluntari briefly reduced the gap, the home team regained control and sealed the set 25–19 to complete the straight-sets win.
Alexia Carutasu led all scorers with 17 points, including four aces and two blocks, while captain Ilkin Aydin added 11 points. For Voluntari, Hannah Duchesneau finished with 15 points.
The return match will be played 18 March in Bucharest, where Galatasaray need just two sets to secure a place in the final.
