Czechia’s women’s team scripted a fairy-tale win over global giants USA, claiming their first-ever Volleyball Nations League victory in an five-set battle.
Down 0-2 and facing elimination, the VNL newcomers mounted a fearless comeback to win 3-2 (23-25, 20-25, 25-17, 25-20, 27-25). The atmosphere inside Brazil’s legendary Maracanãzinho was electric, as Czechia saved 10 match points in the deciding set, keeping fans—and the Americans—on the edge of their seats.
“This team has heart. We never gave up,” said captain Michaela Mlejnková, who led by example with 22 points. “Even when we were down, we believed.”
Monika Brancuská (23 points) and Magdalena Bukovská (21) delivered when it mattered most, completing a trio that dismantled one of the sport’s most decorated teams.
Coach Giannis Athanasopoulos praised his squad’s spirit: “We didn’t give them any free balls. And we stayed aggressive. This win means everything.”
The result is a sobering one for Team USA, who came into the tournament with high hopes despite fielding a relatively inexperienced lineup.
Elsewhere in VNL 2025, Serbia’s youthful team remains winless after two matches. A hard-fought 2-3 loss to the Dominican Republic showed promise, but a lackluster performance against Japan (0-3) exposed growing pains. With clashes against Bulgaria and host Canada looming, Serbia’s resilience will soon be tested.
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