Slovenia
It was mainly Slovenian opposite Iza Mlakar who left her mark in the beginning of the duel. With her 15 points after two sets, Mlakar was the star on the court at Baskent Hall in Ankara. She acted powerful at the net or hammered dominantly from back row, giving the Slovakian defence players a hard time. However, after a difficult first set (16-25), the Slovakian squad changed up a gear. As from the beginning of the second period, the team of head coach Eva Kosekova took over command. Compared to their opponents, the Slovakians had much more variations available. Nevertheless, related to today’s first match featuring Turkey versus Belgium, the overall level of the second match was undoubtedly lower. After three sets, Slovakia led 2:1. However, Slovenia didn’t give up. The team of head coach Bruno Najdic obviously improved their passing and found better solutions at the net. As a consequence, Slovenia won set four 25-17 and switched side at 8-4 in the deciding fifth set. Slovakian middle blocker Nikola Stumpelova reduced the gap to two points with a service winner, before captain and outside hitter Nika Blagne smashed to a 12-7 Slovenian lead. Slovakia again fought back courageously to 11-12, but couldn’t stop Lana Scuka at the end of the match. Mlakar ended it in Slovenian’s favour 15-12.
Slovenia coach Bruno Najdic: “After the easy win of the first set, we were not focused enough in the second and third set. Luckily, we found a way back into the match. It was important to win the first match here.”
Slovakia head coach Eva Kosekova: “It is difficult to win a match without a better quality in reception. Some of my players are not used to play on such a level. As the match went on, we found better solutions, but they were not good enough.”
