With star opposite Paola Egonu sidelined, few expected Italy to shine. But 22-year-old Ekaterina Antropova had other plans.

Thrown into the spotlight, Antropova exploded for 31 points—leading Italy to a gritty 3-2 win over Germany at the Volleyball Nations League. Her powerful performance not only filled Egonu’s shoes but made a statement of her own.
“It wasn’t easy, but we believed,” Antropova said.
Elsewhere, Brazil stayed flawless, sweeping the U.S. behind Ana Cristina Souza’s 20 points. In Ottawa, Bulgaria regrouped after a rough start to edge out the Dominican Republic, mixing veteran savvy with young energy.
- POL M: Skra Bełchatów Fights Back to Beat ZAKSA, Indykpol AZS Triumphs Over Barkom
- JPN M: Sunbirds Secure Back-to-Back Wins Over Tokyo Great Bears
- BRA M: Praia Clube Stays Unbeaten After Comeback Win Over Guarulhos
- SER M: Radnički Claims First Super Cup Title, Sweeps Partizan in Ruma
- Crete becomes the meeting point for 12 countries atCEV Beach Volley European Cup Final!