Turkiye’s women’s volleyball team has written a golden page in history, defeating Japan 3-1 in the semifinals of the World Championship to reach their first-ever final.
The match began with Japan setting the tone, winning the first set 25-16 with strong serves and sharp attacks. However, Turkiye quickly turned the tide. With powerful serve runs and solid blocking, they claimed the next two sets 25-17 and 25-18.
The fourth set delivered high drama. Japan pulled ahead 21-17, driven by Yukiko Wada’s aces, and later 24-21, but Turkiye fought back with incredible resilience. Melissa Vargas led the charge, and after saving three set points, Turkiye sealed the set 27-25 — and with it, a place in the championship final.
They will now face the winner of Italy vs. Brazil in the gold medal match, guaranteeing their first medal at the tournament.
Match Top Scorers
- Melissa Vargas (TUR) – 28 points (Match MVP)
- Eda Erdem (TUR) – 13 points, 4 blocks
- Ebrar Karakurt (TUR) – 13 points
- Zehra Gunes (TUR) – 12 points, 3 blocks
- Yukiko Wada (JPN) – 22 points
- Mayu Ishikawa (JPN) – 19 points
- POL M: Eduardo Carisio Sobrinho Injured, Parts Ways with Cuprum Stilon Gorzów
- Courmayeur Cup Brings Italy’s Volleyball Elite to the Alps
- Nikolov Brothers Lead Bulgaria Stunning Comeback to World Championship Semifinals
- Czechia’s Fairytale Run: Historic Win Over Iran Secures Semifinal Spot
- The Economics of Volleyball Transfers: How Clubs Build Winning Rosters