Ukraine secured their first-ever Volleyball Nations League victory by defeating Germany 3-2 in a dramatic five-set battle in Quebec City.
The VNL newcomers prevailed 25-21, 30-28, 14-25, 19-25, 15-13 after letting a two-set lead slip but regaining control in a tense deciding set. The win came just one match after Ukraine’s tournament-opening loss to the United States.
Ukraine’s attack was led by outside hitter Oleksandra Milenko, who scored 22 points, while opposite hitter Viktoriia Danchak added 17 and middle blocker Diana Meliushkyna contributed 11. The team finished with 62 attack points, eight blocks and seven aces.
Germany fought back strongly after dropping the opening two sets, with Leana Grozer (22 points), Emilia Weske (21) and captain Camilla Weitzel (18) spearheading the comeback. The Germans outscored Ukraine overall 112-103 and recorded 11 blocks and eight aces but were unable to complete the turnaround.
The deciding set remained close throughout before Ukraine delivered in the key moments, sealing the match with a decisive block to earn a landmark victory in its debut VNL campaign.
Result: Ukraine 3-2 Germany (25-21, 30-28, 14-25, 19-25, 15-13)
