Slovenia booked a place in the EuroVolley quarterfinals after sweeping Serbia in straight sets in Turin, delivering a commanding performance before withstanding a third-set fightback.
Fabio Soli’s team dictated the match from the outset, using strong serving and an effective block to keep Serbia under constant pressure. Jan Kozamernik and Alen Pajenk controlled the net, while Nik Mujanović was a major threat in attack and from the serve line.
Slovenia took the opening set 25-14 and tightened their grip on the contest in the second, building a large early advantage on the way to a 25-13 win. Serbia coach Gheorghe Crețu made several changes, but his team struggled to disrupt Slovenia’s rhythm.
Serbia finally found a response in the third set, moving ahead for the first time and staying with Slovenia deep into the frame. With the score tied at 19-19, Slovenia regained control at the crucial moment and pulled clear before sealing the set 25-22.
Mujanović led all scorers with 14 points, Pajenk added 12 and Rok Možič finished with 11. Kozamernik contributed 10 points, including five blocks, while Marko Ivović paced Serbia with eight.
Klemen Čebulj also made his return to the Slovenian national team after more than two years away.
Slovenia will meet Belgium in the quarterfinals.
Result: Slovenia – Serbia 3-0 (25-14, 25-13, 25-22)
