Sir Sicoma Monini Perugia extended their winning streak to 11 matches after edging Guaguas Las Palmas in a dramatic five-set encounter in the CEV Champions League quarterfinal first leg.
The Italian side took early control, winning the opening two sets. Wassim Ben Tara led the charge, while Kamil Semeniuk and Oleh Plotnytskyi provided support as Perugia built a 2-0 advantage.
Guaguas responded strongly, improving their attacking efficiency and showing resilience to claim the third and fourth sets. Led by Martí Ramos, Helder Spencer, and Osmany Juantorena, the Spanish side forced a decisive fifth set after leveling the match.
In the final set, Perugia regained momentum, establishing a narrow lead and holding off a late push from the hosts. Ben Tara sealed the victory with the decisive point, finishing as top scorer with 28 points. Plotnytskyi added 20, while Semeniuk, who scored 13, was named MVP. Francisco Wallysson Souza led Guaguas with 20 points.
Perugia also held the edge in blocks (13-11) and aces (6-1), proving decisive in key moments.
The return leg, which will decide qualification for the Final Four, is scheduled for April 1.
Result:
Guaguas Las Palmas (ESP) vs. Sir Sicoma Monini Perugia (ITA) – 2-3 (23-25, 19-25, 25-21, 25-23, 13-15)