The highly anticipated AXA Sigorta Women’s Super Cup showdown between volleyball titans, Fenerbahce Opet Istanbul and VakifBank Istanbul, certainly lived up to its billing. VakifBank clinched the trophy after an intense five-set duel, recording their fifth Super Cup victory with set scores of 23-25, 25-22, 22-25, 25-23, and 15-12.
Fenerbahce entered the match with significant adjustments to its squad. Having recently parted ways with head coach Zoran Terzic, all eyes were on the team’s new Italian head coach, Stefano Lavarini. On the court, Polish newcomer Magdalena Stysiak filled the void left by Melissa Abreu Vargas, and despite this being her debut match, she didn’t disappoint, emerging as the top scorer with 31 points. Additionally, Arina Fedorovtseva contributed a commendable 18 points.
On the other side, VakifBank, the reigning CEV Champions League Volley victors, saw significant roster changes but came into the clash with high ambitions. After their split with Italian superstar Paola Egonu, the team introduced American Jordan Thompson, who proved her mettle by delivering a standout performance. As one of the key pillars of the team, Thompson not only put up an impressive 29 points but was also crowned as the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the final match. Complementing Thompson’s effort was Gabriela Braga Guimarães (Gabi) who chipped in 21 points.
Vakifbank vs. Fenerbahce 3-2 (23-25, 25-22, 22-25, 25-23,15-12)
