VolleyRuller96

Day 01 Russia 3-0 Canada (26-24 / 25-14 / 25-19)

Day 01 Japan 3-1 Australia (25-17 / 25-13 / 23-25 / 25-17)

Day 01 Italy 3-1 Germany (25-18 / 25-19 / 23-25 / 25-20)

Day 01 Poland 3-0 South Korea (25-20 / 25-18 / 25-21)

Day 01 Bulgaria 3-2 China (25-18 / 18-25 / 19-25 / 25-17 / 15-11)

Day 1 United States 3-2 Argentina (25-27 / 24-26 / 26-24 / 25-21 /15-10)

And in European League we don't have Montenegro, Slovenia plays with their B-team, Belgium does not care... even here, in this competition more teams than usually don't treat the competition seriously Well, but that's what you get when you invent a stupid system that clearly favors certain teams at the expense of others, even making them not eligible for relegation. We had over 140 countries participate in the World Championship qualification, but clearly most of them doesn't want to waste their money ob this circus, and I can't blame them. In Asia, 20 teams participate in this year's Asian Cup and the new competition "challenge cup"(which is not even a important championship) but noone wants to play here Also, it's less than a month until the Challenger Cup should start and we don't know the African qualification system yet...

MEN'S Week 1, day 1 SCHEDULE (25 MAY 2018) all times are CEST 10:00 Argentina - United States 13:30 China - Bulgaria 16:00 Poland - South Korea 17:00 Australia - Japan 17:00 Germany - Italy 19:00 Russia - Canada 20:00 France - Iran 20:00 Serbia - Brazil

PRELIMINARY ROUND STANDINGS after 6 played matches System: 1. CHINA is automaticaly qualified as final 6 Host. 2. TOP 5 TEAMS after the preliminary round qualify for the final round. 3. If China is among the top 5 teams , THE 6-th RANKED TEAM also qualifies. 4. The 12 CORE TEAMS can not be relegated. 4. The WEAKEST PLACED CHALLENGER team may be relegated from the competition if they lose the relegation playoff against the FIVB Challenger Cup (to be played at a later date) winner. Tie-Break Criteria: 1.Matches Won/Lost Ratio (MW/ML) 2. Points Achieved (3 PTS = 3:0 or 3:1 win ; 2 PTS = 3:2 win ; 1PTS = 2:3 defeat ; 0PTS = 0:3 or 1:3 defeat) 3. Set Ratio. Nation MW ML PTS SET 1. 5 1 16 17:4 2. 5 1 15 16:6 3. 5 1 15 16:6 4. 5 1 14 16:6 5. 5 1 14 15:6 6. 4 2 12 12:9 7. 4 2 11 12:9 8. QUALIFIED 3 3 10 12:10 9. 2 4 7 8:12 10. CHALLENGER 2 4 6 8:14 11. 2 4 6 7:13 12. 2 4 5 9:14 13 CHALLENGER 2 4 5 10:16 14: CHALLENGER 1 5 5 8:15 15 1 5 3 6:16 16: : CHALLENGER 0 6 0 2:18

DAY 06 SUMMARY United States 3-0 Belgium Toyota, Japan, May 24, 2018 - Michelle Bartsch-Hackley provided a real masterclass in power and precision as the United States overwhelmed Belgium 3-0 (25-11, 25-18, 25-17) with an awe-inspiring team performance in the inaugural women's FIVB Volleyball Nations League on Thursday. With Kimberly Hill sitting out the match, Bartsch-Hackley moved to the top of the American team's point-scoring list for the tournament, adding a game-high 14 points against the Belgians to lift her series total to 71. Andrea Drews was also in great form, racking up 10 kills in her 12 points, while the American captain Jordan Larson, who top scored in Wednesday's 3-0 romp over the Netherlands, chipped in with 11 as the US completed their third straight sweep in Toyota. With an average age of just 21, the Belgians lacked the experience of their older American counterparts, but lost no supporters with their brave showing as they continue to build. Celine Van Gestel was the standout player, making 10 kills from 25 attempts, while Kaja Grobelna, Nathalie Lemmens and rising teenage star Britt Herbots each had four points. Belgium finished Pool 5 with three losses against the Netherlands, Japan and USA to drop to 2-4 overall after the first two weeks of the new competition, while the USA remained at the top of the standings with their fifth win from six games. Brimming with confidence, the reigning world champions were in a class of their own against the Belgians, dominating at both the front and back of the court, and setting a standard of excellence for the other teams in the competition. Bartsch-Hackley was a constant threat at outside hitter, regularly penetrating the Belgian defence through a combination of power and accuracy, while Drews, at opposite spiker, was a dominant figure at the net, picking up two winning blocks in addition to her 10 scoring hits. The US sealed the first set after a spike from Larson was deflected out of court then clinched the second when middle blocker Rachael Adams (8 points) leapt high to safely foil another Belgian attack. Lauren Gibbemeyer, who also finished with eight points in a strong performance, secured the straight sets victory by scoring the last two points, the first a ferocious spike down the line, then the second a gentler push into an unguarded area. The USA team heads to Bangkok next week to join Thailand, Dominican Republic and Germany in Pool 11 while the Belgians will travel to Europe to play against Pool 10 hosts Serbia as well as Russia and Turkey. RUSSIA 3-1 GERMANY Suwon, South Korea, May 24, 2018 - Irina Voronkova produced a powerful all-round performance to lead Russia to a hard-fought 3-1 (19-25, 25-21, 25-15, 25-23) comeback victory over a gallant Germany in the FIVB Volleyball Nations League on Thursday. The wing spiker produced heavy-hitting all match, especially during the crucial third set, as she finished with 20 points - including four blocks - to guide Russia to their fourth victory at the completion of the second phase. Voronkova was well supported by captain Kseniia Parubets (16 points) and Irina Fetisova (4 blocks) defended superbly. Louisa Lippmann was heroic for Germany with 26 points to lead her team in scoring for the fifth time in the VNL but captain Maren Fromm was well held with just 9 points. The Pool 6 result continues Russia's thorough dominance of Germany over the years as they have now won 29 of 31 matches, including eight straight since 2004. After a momentous upset of Brazil to open the VNL, Germany were winless in Suwon and have lost five straight to be near the foot of the overall rankings. Russia made an ideal start at the Suwon Indoor Gymnasium with Parubets in the thick of the action but countered by Lippmann, whose aerial prowess was evident with an early thunderous spike to energise her team. Marie Scholzel was making her mark with a couple of precise spikes as the teams traded powerful blows during several long rallies in an absorbing opening set. It was an intriguing game of cat and mouse with Germany the clear aggressors unleashing an array of powerful blows - particularly the explosive Lena Stigrot - but they were often stifled by the resilient Russians, who collectively demonstrated hardnosed defence. With both teams desperate to get back to their winning ways, the standard was high with Scholzel shining brightest through deadly serving and high-flying spikes. Perhaps the highpoint came when Voronkova produced a terrific retrieval, where she ended up sprawled near Germany's bench, and subsequently thundered a spike to level the scores at 16 apiece to give her team the momentum. Challenged by their tenacious opponents, Lippmann lifted her output with several spectacular spikes as Germany edged ahead and eventually claimed the first set in 23 minutes. With their backs against the wall, Tatiana Romanova produced an ace to give Russia the perfect start to the second set and they skipped out to an early lead as they increased their aggression after being overwhelmed in the opening stanza. Russia started dictating the rallies and their brute strength was coming to the fore, most notably when Voronkova hammered a spike at a speed of over 100 kph. After finding themselves quickly in a hole, Germany attempted to claw back into the contest - best exemplified by the relentless hustle from Lippmann - but the defensive abilities of Voronkova and Fetisova ensured Russia maintained their handy buffer. In a terrific response to Germany's early jab, Russia levelled the match after needing five set points to claim a tight second stanza. Carrying on the momentum, Russia started the third set strong with Parubets showcasing her offensive skills complemented by stout defence at the net from Ekaterina Efimova, who emphatically blocked Lippmann to give Russia an early buffer in the crucial stanza. Mirroring the second set, Russia had all the answers despite the best efforts of Lippmann, who continued to produce spikes for the highlight reel. With Voronkova seemingly everywhere, Russia cruised through the third set in just 24 minutes as they tightened their grip on the contest. On the brink of another loss, Germany made a better start in the fourth set with Lippmann - registering speeds of over 97kph with her spikes - doing her best to keep her team in the match. It was a see-sawing battle as Germany tried desperately hard to extend the match as Lippmann and Voronkova traded heavy hits during one spectacular stretch. Voronkova produced a sizzling ace, her first of the match, to give Russia the edge at 13-11 but Germany would not be denied as they clawed back once more. However, Russia held their nerve and, quite fittingly, Voronkova sealed the result to spark hearty celebrations from the Russians. Next week, Russia travels to Kraljevo where they play hosts Serbia, Turkey and Belgium, while Germany journeys to Bangkok and takes on hosts Thailand, USA and the Dominican Republic. : Thailand 3-2 Poland Macao, China, May 24, 2018 - Thailand's Chatchu-On Moksri's 26 points helped her side deliver on the potential they had shown all week in registering a 3-2 (25-22, 21-25, 25-23, 21-25, 16-14) win over Poland in second-round action at the 2018 FIVB Women's Volleyball Nations League.It seemed at times the Thais just couldn't find the points - or the luck - to roll Poland over but with wing spiker Chatchu-On's confidence growing, and with support from Ajcharaporn Kongyot (16 points), they seized control of the tie-breaker and just wouldn't let go. When a Chatchu-On kill sealed the deal, the Thais' leapt into each others' arms and danced without a care in the world.The loss would have hurt for Poland's superstar Malwina Smarzek, who again led all concerned on court with 38 points. The spiker has been in sensational form in Macao, and a fourth set-winner that threatened to bounce out of the stadium was just one of any number of personal highlights in an effort that included four blocks.But the young Thai squad's efforts in Macao this week have won over the crowd and coach Danai Sriwacharamaytakul had them looking at all times to stretch the Polish blockers - and avoid Smarzek. That meant the ball was flying everywhere.The Poles were worried by that movement in the first set and by the fourth had seemingly no real idea how to cope other then look to Smarzek - and hope.The Thais meanwhile kept moving and when Sriwacharamaytakul took a time out at 11-9 in the last set he called for calm, and his players stuttered but eventually they delivered.The loss marked Poland's first 0-2 run in world level major tournament matches since they lost five in a row at the 2014 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix. They'll be now hoping to stop the rot. Quickly.But Thursday night was all about this young Thai squad, whose only two previous victories over Poland had come at the 2008 and 2009 World Grand Prix - both times over five sets. It was also the first time in history they had ever taken a first set of the Poles.The Thais moved to 2-4 after two rounds with their second victory in the VNL overall while Poland are on the same mark. : Italy 3-0 South Korea Suwon, South Korea, May 24, 2018 - Spectacular performances from Serena Ortolani and Miryam Fatime Sylla led a rejuvenated Italy to an upset victory over Korea in the FIVB Volleyball Nations League on Thursday. The dynamic duo scored 16 points apiece as Italy won their second straight match in the 3-0 (25-17, 25-21, 25-21) triumph over Korea, who lost for the first time in nine matches at the Suwon Indoor Gymnasium. It was a complete team effort for the revived Italy, who also received tireless contributions from Lucia Bosetti (14 points) and Marina Lubian (9 points). Korea were led by captain Kim Yeon Koung (17 points) but her output was somewhat limited after she had poured in 50 points during the past two matches. The hosts had a number of players struggle to make an impact, including Jeongah Park who scored just 6 points. Italy defeated Korea for just the third time from 12 matches at the world level although the teams had not faced each other since the 2012 Olympics. It was a disappointing end to the second phase homestand for Korea, who now sport a 4-2 overall record, while Italy are rolling after recovering from a dire 0-4 start in the VNL. A confident Italy overpowered their opponents all match and failed to wilt under the immense pressure, while Korea were wayward and appeared out of sync. Continuing their renewed form, an energetic Italy quickly quietened the loud crowd with the first four points of the match. The visitors were playing with vigour and rattling an error-strewn Korea, who found themselves in an early five-point hole. Ortolani and Lubian were lively and continually attacking Korea, who were unable to handle the barrage. Italy were also showcasing stout defence, led by the acrobatic Sylla, who was fresh off her breakout performance against Germany on Wednesday. Shrugging off a shaky start, Kim engineered a comeback with an intoxicating mixture of power and deft touch as Korea suddenly regained the lead after rattling off six straight points from Kim Su Ji's lethal serve. Undaunted, Italy matched their fancied opponents testament to winning a pulsating 24-second rally punctuated by a booming spike from Sylla, who was once again proving her worth as a starter. Korea had trouble finding their groove and were unable to penetrate Italy's formidable defence led by the tenacious efforts of captain Ofelia Malinov. Italy were doing well in all areas, including two successful reviews, as they emphatically claimed the first set through a put away down the line from an inspired Ortolani. Italy's momentum continued from the get go in the second set with Sylla producing an imposing spike as the underdogs soon edged ahead to a three-point lead much to the dismay of the local faithful. Wing spiker Bosetti was thwarting Korea with a fusion of power and deftness as Italy sniffed an invaluable two-set lead. The match reached new heights during a memorable rally mid-set when Sylla showed off her athleticism with a lunging retrieval as she clattered into the advertising boards on the sidelines. The scores see-sawed with a precise one-legged spike from Su Ji Kim reducing the margin to 20-19 as the second set reached a crescendo. Once again silencing the crowd, the commanding Sylla was proving to be the difference maker and she led Italy to a two-set advantage much to the disbelief of those in attendance. Attempting to extricate from a major hole, Korea lifted with the first three points of the stanza as an imperious kill from Heejin Kim brought specactors to their feet. However, undaunted by the electric atmosphere, Italy kept hustling marked by winning a tense 22-second rally to even the scores at 12 apiece. Ortolani and Sylla stepped up when it mattered most as the dynamic duo produced timely spikes as Italy edged ahead in a determined bid to end the contest in straight sets. Italy eventually claimed victory in a slight anti-climax through a review but the confirmation triggered wild celebrations from them, while local fans were visibly stunned. Next week, Italy travel to Hong Kong for phase three action and will play Japan, Argentina and China, while Korea journey to Apeldoorn and face hosts the Netherlands, Brazil and Poland. Netherlands 3-0 Japan Toyota, Japan, May 24, 2018 - Lonneke Sloetjes executed another outstanding performance to engineer a comfortable 3-0 (25-18, 25-18, 25-21) win for the Netherlands over the Pool 5 hosts Japan at the first-ever women's FIVB Volleyball Nations League on Thursday. The Dutch, whose four-game winning streak was shattered when they were beaten 3-0 by the United States on Wednesday, rebounded from that disappointment with an impeccable display against the highly-rated Japanese team. Sloetjes, who played the starring role in the Netherlands' heart-stopping five-set win over Belgium on Tuesday, was once again the architect of her team's victory, hitting 13 winning spikes in her 14-point haul. Middle blocker Yvon Belien finished with 13 points, from 10 spikes and three blocks, while the ever-reliable Anne Buijs chalked up 12 points to take her total for the tournament to 80, the most by a Dutch player. Risa Shinnabe, who was Japan's leading scorer in Wednesday's win over Belgium, once again led the way for her team, finishing with 10 points, level with teenager Ai Kurogo, the youngest member of the host-nation's squad. With an average 10 centimetre height advantage over their opponents, the Netherlands got maximum benefit from their taller players, with 1.91 metre high Sloetjes leading the attack and the 1.98 metre tall Nicole Koolhaas marshalling the defence. Koolhaas (9 points) finished with four blocks and teamed up with Britt Bongaerts (6 points, 4 blocks) for a double that sealed the first set after the Netherlands came out flying, racing to a 9-3 lead as Buijs and the other heavy hitters quickly found their range. The second set was tighter but the Netherlands pulled away after the second technical time-out after a desperate diving save from captain Maret Balkestein-Grothues (6 points) kept the ball alive and Belien finished off the set-clinching point with a superb block. The Japanese captain Nana Iwasaka tried to rally her players in the third set, picking up five points in a fine display, while Yuki Ishii managed seven after being recalled to the court, but the Dutch kept their cool right at the end to secure the win. The Netherlands return home next week to host Brazil, Poland and South Korea in Pool 9 while Japan travel to Hong Kong for Pool 12 games with China, Argentina and Italy. Brazil 3-0 Dominican Republic Ankara, Turkey, May 24, 2018 - Adenizia Da Silva and Amanda Francisco produced majestic performances to inspire Brazil to a fifth successive women's FIVB Volleyball Nations League win after they crushed the Dominican Republic in straight sets 3-0 (25-20, 25-10, 25-13) in Ankara. Brazil, who recalled top scorer Tandara Caixeta after she was rested against Argentina on Wednesday, mixed potent, fluid attacking with added steel in defence, typified by the outstanding blocking display of Adenizia, as they had far too much class for the Caribbean nation, who were outplayed in every department as they slumped to a sixth defeat in six Volleyball Nations League matches. Brazil's victory means they move to within one point of pacesetters USA, and this display will serve as a warning to the rest of the tournament's frontrunners. Amanda top-scored for Brazil with 14 points as she added accurate serving to her finishing ability, but there's far more to the South Americans than all-out attack. Their rigid defence and superb blocking - led by the impenetrable Adenizia - frustrated the Dominican Republic time and time again. Ana Beatriz and skipper Roberta Silva also produced performances full of craft and ingenuity as Brazil oozed class throughout. Brayelin Martinez was the Dominican Republic's top scorer for their fifth Volleyball Nations League match out of six in the inaugural competition; she chalked up nine points but was snuffed out on numerous occasions by Brazil's blockers, and could only land seven of her 25 attempted spikes. Yonkaira Pena Isabel (6 points) and Annerys Valdez (5 points) were their other top scorers, but the Caribbeans were erratic and error-strewn, with their serving letting them down again. Brazil were sluggish in the opening set and found themselves 3-0 down with Martinez and Pena Isabel both registering early spikes. But Jose Roberto Guimaraes' women soon found their rhythm and a couple of brilliant blocks - first through Beatriz and then Amanda - had the South American champions 8-6 in front at the first technical time out. The Queens of the Caribbean looked dangerous, but their achilles heel - poor serving and wayward spikes - returned again with Pena Isabel guilty of a bad miss to put Brazil 11-10 in front. And the favourites stepped up a few gears to move into a six-point lead at 22-16 before Tandara, who had a fairly quiet game, closed out the set (25-20) with Brazil comfortable without really impressing. But the 2017 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix winners were far more enterprising in the second set and blew their opponents away with some wonderful volleyball. Tandara was far more influential than in the opening set and her spike made it 7-5 to Brazil, but Adenizia's outstanding blocking was the theme of the set with Marcos Kwiek's side unable to find a way through her and her partner in crime Beatriz. Brazil were 10 points clear at the second technical time out and they piled on more misery by blitzing clear to win the set 25-10 and move two sets clear with only 57 minutes on the clock. Brazil earned five block points in the second set alone as they thoroughly outclassed their opponents. Dominican Republic had never beaten Brazil before in their previous 18 meetings - with their five-set loss in the 2008 World Grand Prix the closest they have come, and they never looked like erasing that record in this match. Martinez's brilliant block put Kwiek's side to within two points at 5-3 behind, but the top scorer inexplicably launched her resulting serve into the net to immediately hand the initiative back to the South Americans. Brazil were on a roll, and aided by the immaculate serving of Amanda, they scored 9 straight points to move into a 15-6 lead with Dominican Republic making errors by the bucketload. The third set was a procession and some more incredible blocking - this time by replacement Carol - kept the scoreboard ticking as Brazil strolled over the line (25-13). The South Americans won 14 block points alone - seven coming from Adenizia - whilst they produced arguably the best serving display so far in the Volleyball Nations League. Their three-game tour of Ankara ends in three convincing wins, and they head to the Netherlands in buoyant mood for week 3 matches against the Dutch, South Korea and Poland. Serbia 3-1 : China Macao, China, May 24, 2018 - Tijana Boskovic's 32 points - including five big blocks - ensured Serbia made it a clean sweep of the second round of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Nations League with a 3-1 (21-15, 25-23, 25-21, 25-17) victory over arch-rivals China on Thursday night. The star opposite spiker was rested and ready for the big occasion and the Chinese couldn't cope once the 21-year-old found her groove after some rusty play in the first stanza.In fact all the Serbs grew into the match the longer it played out, with Brankica Mihajlovic (15 points) also playing a big part in the victory. There were plenty of errors but also plenty for coach Zoran Terzic to work with going forward.China have been a bit of a hit-and-miss affair in the VNL so far, as coach Lang Ping has tinkered with their youthful squad, but they looked good in the first set here, and were led then and all night by an impressive Gong Xiangyu (12 points).There is a rich sense of anticipation whenever these two rivals meet, fuelled by the fact they fought out the final at the Rio Olympics in 2016. The Chinese walked away with the gold thanks to a 3-1 victory. Since then, though, it's been all Serbia with two wins at world level - at last year's FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix (3-1 and 3-1).Arriving in Macao, the teams were tied 7-7 overall and such was Terzic's desire to take this renewal that he rested Boskovic in the match the night before against Poland, which the Serbs won 3-1.China's young gun - 18-year-old spiker Li Yingying - was also left out of the previous night's activities (a 3-1 win over Thailand) and coach Lang Ping held her back again on Thursday, most likely with one eye on the finals, which China have already qualified for as host nation. Li, whose service reception remains a work in progress, came on when the score was at 6-1 to the Serbs in the fourth set.What made the Serbians' victory all the more encouraging - in terms of the tournament in general - was it came despite the troubles Mihajlovic continued to have at times with her serve. The first four on Thursday night were all misses and saw the 27-year-old looking to the heavens for help. It came by the time the fourth set had arrived and the Serbs were well on their way to victory.So the Serbs head to the next round with a record of 5-1 - the only loss so far coming last week against Brazil (3-1) - and with a team that is doing plenty of damage without being in top form. Somehow.The Chinese are meanwhile at 3-3 and still struggling to find consistency - but there is plenty of time to find that still ahead. With games to come in Hong Kong - and the finals set for Ningbo - a worrying trend for coach Lang, however, is the fact that now each of her team's past nine losses in world level major tournament matches have come in China. Turkey 3-0 Argentina Ankara, Turkey, May 24, 2018 - Meryem Boz's virtuoso display helped hosts Turkey seal a straight-sets win (25-16, 25-16, 25-19) over a struggling Argentina side, who remain without a victory and a point in the FIVB women's Nations League. Turkey fully merited their Pool 8 victory after another tenacious defensive display, which was sprinkled with some efficient attacking, and it was a combination that proved too much for an Argentina side who have now lost their opening 6 Nations League matches - matching their poor start at last year's Grand Prix. Turkey, meanwhile, kept themselves well in the hunt near the summit and will take some beating on this form after a 5th win in 6 games. Meryem Boz was Turkey's top points scorer with 15 points, but she was wonderfully assisted by Meliha Ismailoglu, whose creative play and razor sharp reactions caught the eye on top of her 12-point contribution. Captain Erdem Dundar (10 points), setter Gamze Alikaya (9 points - 5 of which were aces) and libero Hatice Orge Guner also produced typically classy performances. As for Argentina, Elina Rodriguez top-scored once more with 12 points and gave her all at the net, but the South Americans' other notorious points scorer Anahi Tosi was off her game for large parts despite finishing as her side's second top scorer with 10 points. Roared on by the Baskent Volleyball Hall crowd, Turkey started like a train and surged into a 3-0 lead thanks to 2 thumping spikes from Meryem Boz, and after a mini Argentine comeback, Giovanni Guidetti's girls scored 8 straight points to lead 14-5 and put the first set out of reach of an Argentina side who were extremely low on confidence. Argentina showed tremendous heart and fought back from an 8-point deficit at the second technical time out to close to within 4 at 19-15 behind, but Turkey composed themselves and went on another scoring burst with Ismailoglu's ace - her 6th point of the set - rounding out the set 25-16. Into set 2 and Turkey, who are a side renowned for their team ethic rather than any individual scoring prowess, kept up their sustained pressure, with Alikaya and the imperious Ismailoglu pulling the strings. Ismailoglu scored a couple of spikes to edge Turkey into a 3-2 lead and that advantage was stretched to 3 points by the first technical time out after a woeful Anahi Tosi serve. To sum up Argentina's luck, Erdem's block rebounded off the unfortunate libero Tatiana Rizzo before another Erdem spike gave Turkey a handsome 16-9 lead at the second stoppage. Argentina's service reception was poor, and the hosts were able to cruise home 25-16 to take a 2-set lead with only 56 minutes on the clock. Turkey's blocking prowess - similar to that of Brazil in their win over Dominican Republic - was top notch and they continued where they left off in the 3rd set. Replacement Beyza Arici's wonderful block got them off the mark, but the visitors threw caution to the wind in an effort to rescue the match and some fluid attacking handed them a 10-6 lead. Turkey though roared back with 3 straight points before an Alikaya ace - her 3rd of the match - hauled them level at 11-11. A wonderfully placed Boz spike gave the hosts a 2-point cushion, and thanks to some brilliant Alikaya serving, Turkey closed out the set 25-19 to record back-to-back home wins and a 4th victory in as many world-level encounters against Argentina. The hosts notched 15 block points - 1 more than Brazil managed earlier - in another defensive masterclass. Turkey head to Serbia next week where they'll also play Belgium and Russia in a tough looking Pool 10, while Argentina face Japan, China and Italy in Hong Kong.

Day 06 Turkey 3-0 Argentina (25-16 / 25-16 / 25-19)

Day 06 Serbia 3-1 China (21-25 / 25-23 / 25-21 / 25-17)

Well, at least now Eesti can into Nordic Thx, corrected

Day 06 Brazil 3-0 Dominican Republic (25-20 / 25-10 / 25-13)

Day 06 Thailand 3-2 Poland (25-22 / 21-25 / 25-23 / 21-25 / 16-14)

Day 06 Netherlands 3-0 Japan (25-18 / 25-18 / 25-21)

Day 6 Italy 3-0 South Korea (25-17 / 25-21 / 25-21 )

Day 06 Russia 3-1 Germany (19-25 / 25-21 / 25-15 / 25-23)

GROUP STANDINGS after leg 2 out of 6 (next leg: 26-27 may.) Tie-Break Criteria: 1.Matches Won/Lost Ratio (MW/ML) 2. Points Achieved (3 PTS = 3:0 or 3:1 win ; 2 PTS = 3:2 win ; 1PTS = 2:3 defeat ; 0PTS = 0:3 or 1:3 defeat) 3. Set Ratio. GOLDEN LEAGUE System 1. is automatically pre-qualified to FINAL 4 as host 2. WINNERS of each group qualify to final four 3. If is amongst the Group Winners the best 2nd-ranked team qualifies 4. The WINNER AND RUNNER UP OF FINAL 4 qualifies to the FIVB Challenger Cup 5. The WEAKEST TEAM OVERALL will be relegated GROUP A Nation PTS MW ML Sets 1 6 2 0 6:1 2. 6 2 0 6:2 3. 0 0 2 2:6 4. 0 0 1 1:6 GROUP B Nation PTS MW ML SETS 1. 6 2 0 6:1 2. 3 1 1 4:3 3. 3 1 1 3:3 4. 0 0 2 0:6 GROUP C Nation PTS MW ML SETS 1. 6 2 0 6:0 2. 5 2 0 6:2 3. 1 0 2 2:6 4. 0 0 0 0:6 SILVER LEAGUE System 1. is automatically pre-qualified to Final 4 as host 2. The GROUP WINNERS qualify to Final 4. 3. The BEST 2-ND PLACED TEAM also qualifies. 4. The FINAL 4 WINNER will qualify to the 2019 GOLDEN LEAGUE. GROUP A Nation PTS MW ML SETS 1 6 2 0 6:0 2. 5 2 0 6:2 3. 1 0 2 2:6 4. 0 0 2 0:6 GROUP B Nation PTS MW ML SETS 1. 6 2 0 6:1 2. 3 1 1 4:3 3. 3 1 1 3:3 4. 0 0 2 1:6

Day 06 United States 3-0 Belgium (25-11 / 25-18 / 25-17)

LEG 2 SUMMARY - GOLDEN LEAGUE Luxembourg, May 23, 2018. The leading positions became apparent as Leg 2 in the CEV Volleyball Golden European League - Women on Wednesday came to an end. Bulgaria and Azerbaijan go head to head in Pool A with two victories and six points each. Bulgaria remain ahead after losing only one set in their two matches this far. In Pool B only Hungary stay unbeaten after their victory over Croatia in Budapest. Czech Republic and Belarus keep close in Pool C after their straight-set victories, with the first staying one point ahead since Belarus 'only' claimed two points this past weekend in Slovakia. POOL A Azerbaijan vs. Portugal 3-1 (24-26, 25-17, 25-14, 25-17) Azerbaijan congratulated themselves with a 3-1 victory in their game vs. Portugal and are on the winning path in the #EuroLeagueW. Although they started worse than their opponents losing the first set, the Azeris got back on their feet and grabbed the next three sets. • The unfolding of the match was a kind of “déjà-vu” from the first leg for Team Azerbaijan as they lost their first set in the match vs. Ukraine as well but then seized a 3-1 win. • The reason for losing the first part was the weak play of Azerbaijan in reception, where they made too many mistakes. The visitors surprised the home team in the first set. There was a lack of concentration in the last moments, when the Azeri girls were leading at 24-22; Portugal scored two times and eventually emerged victorious. • Things changed in the three following sets, when the home side was more stable in the different components of the game and won with a comfortable point-difference. Famil Aghayev, assistant coach of Azerbaijan: “The Azerbaijan team is still searching for their optimal game in the Golden European League. We play without some key players and we give a chance to younger ones. This match was an important step in our preparations for the match vs. Bulgaria. We will try to show better Volleyball in Sofia, that’s for sure.” Olena Hasanova, player of Azerbaijan: “This match against Portugal was not easy at all. We made some mistakes in the first set and we tried to change the situation. In the following sets, our reception and block worked better and we took the win. Now we are waiting for the games against Bulgaria – one of the strongest opponents in our group.” Manuel Almeida, head coach of Portugal: “My team started well and showed a good game in block and reception, but Azerbaijan were better in the following sets. I am happy that we fought in each set. Yes, Portugal lost but the game itself was very interesting and I hope the fans enjoyed it.” Bulgaria vs. Ukraine 3-1 (32-34, 25-10, 25-22, 25-21) The team of Bulgaria keep on presenting themselves well in the #EuroLeagueW after storming to a 3-1 win over Ukraine (32-34, 25-10, 25-22, 25-21). The first set of this matchup from Leg 2 in Pool A of the competition featured many long and intense rallies. Ukraine needed 31 minutes to close that first part at 34-32, but then Bulgaria reacted properly and took control of the match. • This is Bulgaria’s second win in a row in the #EuroLeagueW. • The Lionesses defeated Ukraine 3-1 in Pool A of the tournament after a very long and interesting first part of the match. • The captain of the hosts - Hristina Ruseva finished as top scorer with 21 points, and registered an outstanding performance at the net with 11 blocks. • Gergana Dimitrova recorded 16 points for the winners while Mariya Karakasheva scored 13 times. • For Ukraine Nadiia Kodola contributed with 17 points. Ivan Petkov, head coach of Bulgaria: “We started the match really well but we were too emotional and made some mistakes which cost us the opening set. In the next three sets, on the other hand, we did not make the same errors and managed to close the match by 3-1. Now we start to think about our next game against Azerbaijan on Saturday. We have to prepare really well because they are a strong team. I hope to win and to finish our home matches in “Hristo Botev” sports hall with three victories!” Hristina Ruseva, captain of Bulgaria: “I’m really happy with our performance today. We were in a difficult situation after the first set, but all the girls managed to come back even stronger and to achieve this great result. We can definitely see a change in the way we play this season. We need time to improve our performance and to show our real potential. Azerbaijan is a good team with good players, but we will do everything we can to win.” Nadiia Kodola, captain of Ukraine: “We were in a good position after the opening set. In the following ones, however, we missed our chances and let the Bulgarian team play better and better. They found their rhythm and defeated us, but the tournament is still in the beginning, so we will have our opportunity to show a better performance.” POOL B Hungary vs. Croatia 3-1 (26-24, 25-23, 23-25, 25-12) The opening set, in the first match since 1997 where the two teams have played in Hungary, was tight. Croatia had a narrow lead until 22-22, but then the Hungarians played better to win 26-24. The second set was similar to the first: Croatia took an early lead, Hungary fought back from 16-19, taking six points in a row before eventually winning the set 25-23. In the third set Croatia led 15-11, Hungary came back to 22-21, but the visiting team eventually took the set 25-23. The fourth set was clearly dominated by the hosts, Hungary led 6-1, later 15-7, and eventually won 25-12. Best player of the match was Anett Németh (Hungary). Best scorers were Gréta Szakmáry (Hungary) with 21 points, and Dinka Kulic (Croatia) with 12 points. Hungary won its second match in a row, while Croatia has one victory and one defeat after two rounds. The number of spectators in attendance reached 1,100. Jan De Brandt, coach of Hungary: “It was a tough game, both teams played very well. We could win thanks to our great serves, and the defence of my team was the best I have ever seen since working with the girls.” Igor Lovrinov, coach of Croatia: “In the first two sets we could have won, but Hungary was luckier. In the last set we couldn’t do anything against the great defence of the host team.” Finland vs. France 3-0 (25-18, 25-13, 25-21) Top scorers of the match were Piia Korhonen (FIN) with 15 points and Amandha Marine Sylves (FRA) with 9. Finland have never lost a women’s national team match in Jyväskylä. After beating France, the amount of victories grew to 4. It was great atmosphere in the hall, the total amount of spectators standing at 1,216. Finnish libero Tiiamari Sievänen played an amazing match in reception (68%) and in defence as well. Tapio Kangasniemi, coach of Finland: “We have a great volleyball culture in Finland. It doesn’t matter where we play, the hall is always full. Our basic level in the game was good enough, but we still have some elements to improve.” Juliette Fidon, captain of France: “Finland played very well and they deserved the victory. We are quite a new and young team, so we have to continue working hard.” POOL C Belarus vs. Slovakia 3-0 (25-23, 25-19, 25-20) The beginning of the match in Minsk showed the dominance of Belarus, but Slovakia proved a challenging opponent. In the first set the visiting team had an excellent comeback, bouncing back from 21-17 down to 22-21 after taking the lead thanks to outside-spiker Nikola Radosova. An error of setter Barbora Kosekova allowed Belarus to take the lead back at 24-23. Hanna Hryshkevich had an excellent shot on the set-ball for 25-23, allowing the host team to win the set. Belarusians Nadzeya Stoliar and Tatsiana Seryk were successful in attack in the second set, making it 21-17 for Belarus, before they extended the gap to 2-0, after winning the set 25-19. The hosts eventually claimed a straight set victory. Anzhelika Barysevich showed a good performance in blocking and scored three points in this element. Nikola Radosova from Slovakia was the top scorer with 16 points, but her team had to accept a second defeat from Belarus in as many matches. Piotr Khilko, coach of Belarus: “We had a good match tonight. Setter Anastasiya Shash was the key that allowed my players to have a good attack. With the second victory in the Golden European League, we will approach the next matches with the right attitude.” Marco Fenoglio, coach of Slovakia: “My team had a good comeback to take the lead in the first set, however we lost the initiative ourselves and made too many errors. It is impossible to win a match while making so many errors. A few days ago in Poprad we showed a better game.” Czech Republic vs. Spain 3-0 (25-20, 25-16, 25-21) The Spanish team opened the match perfectly, building a six-point-lead in the first set. However, Czech Republic managed to tie the score and improve their game, eventually winning the opening set 25-20. The second set was very tight at the beginning. Nevertheless, the hosts extended their lead and thanks to two aces at the end, they clinched the second set 25-16. With the support of an enthusiastic home crowd, the Czechs celebrated a 3-0 win. Andrea Kossanyiova (CZE) was top scorer of the match after claiming 11 points. Maria Segura (ESP) was the best scorer of Spain with eight points. The match lasted 74 minutes only. Barbora Purchartova, captain of Czech Republic: “The beginning of the match was slower, the Spaniards were great in defence. We made many mistakes, but then we improved and we played a really good game. I'm happy about our victory today.” Zdenek Pommer, coach of Czech Republic: “Despite of our nervousness today, my girls confirmed that they are the favourites. They also proved that the victory in Spain was not a coincidence. They were great in block at the end of the match and with their sky-ball serve.” Helia Gonzalez, captain of Spain: “The beginning of the match was great, but we didn't keep this level. We have to work on it." LEG 2 SUMMARY - SILVER LEAGUE Luxembourg, May 23, 2018. The CEV Silver European League Final Four hosts prove to be a tough challenge to their opponents in Pool A, as Sweden took the leading position with two victories after two rounds of the competition. Estonia remain one point behind after defeating Switzerland in a tie-breaker. In Pool B Austria established a wider gap to their competitors, as they are the only team without any loss this far. POOL A Estonia vs. Switzerland 3-2 (21-25, 25-17, 24-26, 25-18, 15-12) The teams of Estonia and Switzerland locked horns on Wednesday in a match of Leg 2 of the Silver European League – Women. It was a very interesting match that came to an end with a victory for the Estonians – the play was marked by intense rallies with both sides fighting for each point. However, Estonia performed better in the crucial moments and grabbed the win. Both Estonia and Switzerland now have two wins and two losses when it comes to their head-to-heads. There was a record-breaking audience for a women's game, since around 1,200 people attended the match and enjoyed the play. Kertu Laak of Estonia scored only one point in the first set but managed to come back in an amazing way, ending the game with 27 points (including four aces and eight blocks). Laura Kuenzler scored as many as 35 points for Switzerland in their losing effort. Liis Kullerkann, player of Estonia: “The start of the match was terrible for us but thanks to the great service series of Julija Mõnnakmäe and Kertu Laak, we managed to save the game. Our block was not working properly and we will work on that during the next training sessions. From an emotional point of view, it was a good and important win for us.” Timothy Lippuner, coach of Switzerland: “As I expected our match turned out to be a five-set game. Both teams were testing each other at the beginning, we had a better first set, and on the contrary, Estonia had a better second one. In general, it was an equal match, but we started worse in the last set and that was the key for the eventual result. We made too many mistakes in difficult situations. Taking one point from this match is important for us as we can expect to improve when playing at home.” Kosovo vs. Sweden 0-3 (21-25, 23-25, 10-25) • Sweden claimed their second victory in as many matches in Pool A, thus cementing their leadership in the group. • Kosovo put up a fight in the first two sets, where the hosts claimed 21 and 23 points, respectively. • Isabelle Haak top scored for Sweden with an impressive haul of 21 points. • Kosovo’s Florentina Deliu made her European League debut, taking to the court in the third set. Guillermo Gallardo, coach of Sweden: “It was an extremely tough match for the first two sets, since Kosovo put a lot of pressure on us. It was very important to win and we have done that. We do not underestimate any team and we just keep going forward. We look forward to the next match with Estonia and we will give our best there as well.” Jonna Wasserfaller, captain of Sweden: “We are happy for the victory and it was a good game for us. We think the leader of the group will be decided between Sweden and Estonia. We have played them before and they recorded more wins than we did. Therefore, it is time for a revenge.” Lorik Ilazi, head coach of Kosovo: “I am happy because I see a lot of progress compared with the last game against Estonia. Our girls did a great job and I think we were unlucky when we led 23-22 in the second set, as we were hoping to win at least one set. Our focus is now on Saturday’s game against Switzerland, and it’s great that I will be back at Forum Biwi Rossemaison, where I played with KV Drita in the CEV Cup.” POOL B Albania vs. Austria 0-3 (18-25, 17-25, 21-25) • Austria recorded a 3-0 victory at Olimpik Park in Tirana, thus claiming the leadership in the Pool since these teams had emerged victorious from their previous matches last Saturday. • The local fans expected a much better performance from the home side but they left the sports hall very disappointed, as the hosts made too many mistakes. • Austria, on the other hand, played very well and deserved their victory. • Austria dominated the game from start to end, slowly but surely extending their advantage in each set. Only the third set was a little closer, but Albania failed to rise to the occasion. • Nikolina Maros of Austria top scored with 16 points. Altin Martiri, coach of Albania: “I think this is the worst game we have played in three years. We made many mistakes in this game, something unusual for us, not giving what we expected. We have to analyse this defeat and try to return to the path of victory as quickly as possible.” Svetlana Ilic, coach of Austria: “We achieved a great victory tonight, against our main rival in the pool. We know that Albania is a strong team, but we also played well and I think we deserved the victory, which gives us more confidence for the future. We have to continue working well and hard for the next games.” Israel vs. Georgia 3-1 (25-21, 23-25, 25-20, 25-16) • Israel secured their first victory in this year’s Silver European League in Ra’anana. • The hosts improved their win-loss record to 1-1, as Georgia are still winless. • Polina Malik top scored for the home side with 22 points followed by Vitalia Marmen with 16. Svetlana Sosnovskaya registered 15 points for Georgia, with Ann Kalandadze adding 11 to their count. Giuseppe Cuccarini, coach of Israel: “I am very happy with this victory, since it gives us a lot of energy and motivation to continue our campaign. Our young players gain international experience from such a competition and this is very important. We lost the second set because of our own mistakes. We will learn from that and improve. We have a very tough game with Albania coming up on Saturday and I am sure we will be prepared for that.” Paata Ulumbelashvili, coach of Georgia: “We lost this match because of our own mistakes. We will learn from this for the remainder of the competition, since the Silver European League is a great opportunity for our team to progress.”

LEG 2 , DAY 1 GROUP A Azerbeijan 3-1 Portugal (24-26 / 25-17 / 25-14 / 25-17) GROUP A Bulgaria 3-1 Ukraine (32-34 / 25-10 / 25-22 / 25-21) GROUP B Finland 3-0 France (25-18 / 25-13 / 25-21) GROUP B Hungary 3-1 Croatia (26-24 / 25-23 / 23-25 / 25-12) GROUP C Belarus 3-0 Slovakia (25-23 / 25-19 / 25-20) GROUP C Czech Republic 3-0 Spain (25-20 / 25-16 / 25-21) GROUP A Estonia 3-2 Switzerland (21-25 / 25-17 / 24-26 / 25-18 / 15-12) GROUP A Kosovo 0-3 Sweden (21-25 / 23-25 / 10-25) GROUP B Israel 3-1 Georgia (25-21 / 23-25 / 25-20 / 25-16) GROUP B Albania 0-3 Austria (18-25 / 17-25 / 21-25)

GROUP STANDINGS after leg 2 out of 6 (next leg: 26-27 may.) Tie-Break Criteria: 1.Matches Won/Lost Ratio (MW/ML) 2. Points Achieved (3 PTS = 3:0 or 3:1 win ; 2 PTS = 3:2 win ; 1PTS = 2:3 defeat ; 0PTS = 0:3 or 1:3 defeat) 3. Set Ratio. GOLDEN LEAGUE System 1. is automatically pre-qualified to FINAL 4 as host 2. WINNERS of each group qualify to final four 3. If is amongst the Group Winners the best 2nd-ranked team qualifies 4. The WINNER AND RUNNER UP OF FINAL 4 qualifies to the FIVB Challenger Cup 5. The WEAKEST TEAM OVERALL will be relegated GROUP A Nation PTS MW ML Sets 1 6 2 0 6:2 2. 3 1 1 4:4 3. 3 1 1 4:4 4. 0 0 2 2:6 GROUP B Nation PTS MW ML SETS 1. 5 2 0 5:2 2. 4 1 1 3:1 3. 3 1 1 3:3 4. 0 0 2 1:6 GROUP C Nation PTS MW ML SETS 1. 6 2 0 6:1 2. 3 1 1 4:3 3. 3 1 1 3:4 4. 0 0 2 1:6 SILVER LEAGUE System 1. is automatically pre-qualified to Final 4 as host 2. The GROUP WINNERS qualify to Final 4. 3. The BEST 2-ND PLACED TEAM also qualifies. 4. The FINAL 4 WINNER will qualify to the 2019 GOLDEN LEAGUE. GROUP A Nation PTS MW ML SETS 1. 6 2 0 6:1 2. 3 1 1 4:3 3. 3 0 2 3:4 4. 0 0 2 1:6 GROUP B Nation PTS MW ML SETS 1. 6 2 0 6:1 2. 3 1 1 4:3 3. 3 1 1 3:4 4. 0 0 2 1:6

LEG 2 SUMMARY - GOLDEN LEAGUE Luxembourg, May 23, 2018. Estonia, Turkey and Finland lead Pools A, B and C respectively after Leg 2 at Golden European League. Estonia and Finland earned 6 points each, with Finland being the only team to lose one set after two rounds of the competition. Turkey top Pool B with 5 points after defeating The Netherlands in five sets on Wednesday. The Dutch team remain right behind with 4 points. POOL A Slovakia vs. Sweden 3-1 (25-23, 25-18, 19-25, 25-16) It was the first match between Slovakia and Sweden in 11 years. Previously Slovakia won three times, Sweden once. Sweden led 16-12 in the first set, but Slovakia turned the score and won 25-23 with a well timed ace from opposite Peter Mlynarcik. Sweden played a really strong third set and took the lead (14-8), extending it to 22-16 before taking the set 25-19. Slovakia were back in the game in the fourth set, winning it comfortably (25-16). Top scorer of the match was Fredrik Gustavsson from Sweden with 25 points. Tomáš Kriško from Slovakia, who came back to the line-up collected 15 points. 27-year-old setter Jakub Hrinak (Slovakia) recorded his debut in the national team. Andrej Kravárik, coach of Slovakia: "Sweden risked a lot in the service and we had troubles with our reception in the first set. I think key was the first set, because we were down and we came back. All of my players played well and I want also to thank our spectators here in Poprad. It was a much needed victory for us, because we had lost nine games in a row." Johan Isacsson, coach of Sweden: "We had as many chances as we had against Belgium. We took the third set, but I think it is important to win the first set when you play away and we had a chance. Slovakia played at home, they are a strong team. I am proud of my players, but we need to play much better block-defence." Estonia vs. Belgium 3-1 (25-16, 25-20, 27-29, 25-17) Birthday-boy Oliver Venno was the second best scorer for the winning side Estonia with 16 points, one less than teammate Renee Teppan. For the second game in a row opposite Venno was used as outside-hitter, so Estonia had a powerful attack again. The win was a sweet revenge for Estonia, as last summer Belgium stopped Estonia´s road to their first ever participation in the FIVB World Championship when the Red Dragons beat Estonia in the decisive match in the third round of qualifications. About 2,000 spectators attended the match in Rakvere. Gheorghe Cretu, coach of Estonia: ”We play with two opposites and up to some point it gives us a very powerful attack. But at some point the opponent team will crack it open and things will get more complicated, as it's not possible to keep our game perfect all the time. Belgium has one of the best coaches in the world, so I did not expect an easy game. But I am happy with the result, I think the players still remembered last year's game against Belgium, so Oliver got a nice birthday present from the guys.” Andrea Anastasi, coach of Belgium: “They played better than us, we have only been together for a week and it shows in the game. Our block and defence were bad, the service was ok. This competition is like this for us, we need time to get better but there is no time. But some young players get good experience here, so I am happy about that.” POOL B Turkey vs. The Netherlands - 3-2 (25-23, 21-25, 25-20, 20-25, 15-12) The team of Turkey claimed an important 3-2 win in their matchup vs. The Netherlands in the second leg of #EuroLeagueM. Many Volleyball supporters attended the match that took place on Wednesday and made an exciting atmosphere in the sports hall in Van (Turkey). 5000 spectators enjoyed some high-class Volleyball on Wednesday. Metin Toy from Turkey finished the match scoring 21 points with 45% efficiency in attack while Burak Gungor recorded 15 points to his name for the winning side. Maarten Van Garderen from The Netherlands was named Best Player of the match scoring 21 points as well, but this was not enough and the Dutch players lost for a very first time in the competition. 
Nedim Ozbey, head coach of Turkey: “We knew it would be a very tough match today, we played very well in the first two sets. We tried to stay focused especially in the last parts of each set, but they were putting a pressure on us with their actions on the service line and in attack. Fortunately, we were always able to fight back and in the end we won this match. Thanks to all of our fans who supported us today. The atmosphere was incredible.” Murat Yenipazar, player of Turkey: “It was a match with a lot of ups and downs and this remains the main problem for our team, we suffer from lack of concentration. The only part of the game, when we were totally focused, was the scoring of the last points in the first two sets and the fourth one. I’m happy that we won the game against The Netherlands.” Nedim Ozbey, head coach of Turkey: “We knew it would be a very tough match today, we played very well in the first two sets. We tried to stay focused especially in the last parts of each set, but they were putting a pressure on us with their actions on the service line and in attack. Fortunately, we were always able to fight back and in the end we won this match. Thanks to all of our fans who supported us today. The atmosphere was incredible.” Ukraine vs. Slovenia More details will follow soon... POOL C Czech Republic vs. Finland 1-3 (23-25, 25-21, 19-25, 21-25) • The first set was a very close one, until the Finns broke away to lead 24-19; the hosts scored four times in a row but it was not enough to end the set in their favour. • The second set followed a similar plot, with the Czechs eventually winning it. • Finland responded by taking the third and fourth sets with great passing and, as a result, they secured their second straight victory in as many matches they have played this far. • The Czech fans contributed a great atmosphere, which the home stars enjoyed very much. There were many Finnish fans as well. Jakub Janouch, captain of Czech Republic: “I would like to thank all the fans who came to support us today. The match started at 8pm on a weekday and the fans were just great. For our next matches we have to train harder because we still aren’t good when it comes to our teamwork.” Sauli Sinkkonen, captain of Finland: “We achieved a victory at home last Saturday and I am so glad that we won again today.” Spain vs. Portugal 3-0 (27-25, 25-17, 29-27) Spain extended their streak at home, achieving a new victory. The president of the Spanish Olympic Committee, Alejandro Blanco, was in Guadalajara, accompanied by Agustín Martín Santos-President of RFEVB and Antonio Román-Major of Guadalajara. Authorities congratulated the Spanish team. Spain had a great performance on the block, controlling the Portuguese attack. Spain showed their improvement and avenged their first match defeat in the Golden European League. Both teams are tied in the pool, with one victory apiece over each other . Spain’s Andrés Villena was the man of the match with 24 points and 5 blocks. Fernando Muñoz, coach of Spain: “Personally, I am very happy and proud. Today was a special moment for some teammates, because they played their first match wearing the national shirt of Spain.” LEG 2 SUMMARY - SILVER LEAGUE Luxembourg, May 23, 2018. Latvia and Croatia confirmed their strong start to the CEV Silver European League. Both secured two victories in as many matches after Leg 2, becoming the top teams in their respective Pools A and B. On Wednesday Latvia needed three sets only to beat the Former Y.R. of Macedonia, while Austria claimed second place in Pool A and recorded their first victory in the competition after a 3-0 win over Kosovo. In Pool B, Croatia required four sets to win against Belarus. Albania followed their example with a 3-1 win against Hungary, but the team remain third in Pool B. POOL A Kosovo vs. Austria 0-3 (18-25, 12-25, 17-25) • After losing to Latvia last Saturday, Austria celebrated their first victory in the competition, beating Kosovo 3-0 in Gjilan. • The first set was a close affair up to 14-all before Austria edged ahead and imposed their rule. • Austrian rising Volleyball star Paul Buchegger top scored with 17 points. • As they paid their first-ever visit to Kosovo, Austria travel home with maximum three points from this game. • The men’s national team of Kosovo played their first-ever match at Bashkim Selishta-Petriti sports hall in the city of Gjilan. Peter Wohlfahrtstätter, player of Austria: “We watched a lot of videos of Kosovo and we knew every player. We did too many mistakes but we managed to get back in good shape. Since last Saturday, we had another two, three training sessions together in order to establish a better connection and chemistry, and this is the result.” Michael Warm, head coach of Austria: “We are happy that we won today and we were extremely focused and concentrated. The next match in Skopje will be another tough one. We saw the match of Kosovo against the Former Y.R. of Macedonia and we tried to pay attention to their middle-blocker, and that was key towards our victory today.” Latvia vs. Former Y.R. of Macedonia 3-0 (25-17, 25-16, 25-19) • After beating Austria last Saturday, Latvia recorded their second straight victory in the competition. • Nikola Gjorgiev top scored for the visitors with 12 points. • Edvarts Buivids paced Latvia with 16 as Deniss Petrovs delighted the home fans in his hometown Daugavpils with a solid performance. Deniss Petrovs, player of Latvia: “The Former Y.R. of Macedonia was an opponent that we did not know very well, however we managed to win. Today I felt like we had a better chemistry in the game. I was very honoured to receive the MVP title – especially while playing in my hometown. Now we are looking forward to the next game with Kosovo.” Nikola Gjorgiev, player of the Former Y.R. of Macedonia: “Latvia was a tough opponent and we did not expect this to be an easy game, especially after seeing how they fought in Austria. We started well, however we made many mistakes. The good thing is we still have time to improve our game. Good luck to Latvia in the next games and we will now prepare for our game with Austria.” POOL B Hungary vs. Albania 1-3 (25-22, 21-25, 21-25, 23-25) Both teams lost their first games in Pool A. Albania gained their first victory in this year’s Silver European League, while Hungary are still winless after two rounds. Albania started the first set strongly, but Hungary bounced back, tied at 17-17 and kept the lead to win 25-22. Both teams kept the score tight in the second set, with neither leading by more than three points, up until 18-18. At that moment, Albania seized an opportunity to go 22-18 ahead, and eventually won the set 25-21. The visiting team dominated the third set since the beginning, leading 5-2, 16-12 and 22-18, eventually recording a 25-21 win. Albania took a seven-point lead in the fourth set (16-9), but Hungary managed to equalise at 19-19. Albania were able to stop their opponent and won the set in the end with 25-23. Top scorers of the match were Hungary’s Krisztián Pádár with 12 points and Albania’s Gazmend Husaj with 20 points. Anton Qafarena from Albania was named the best player of the match. Péter Blazsovics, player of Hungary: “We started the match really well, but after the first set our performance began to drop. Our coach tried to help us with substitutions, but it didn’t achieve the desired effect. We fought really hard but unfortunately it wasn’t enough for the victory. We will try to improve our performance for the next match.” Gazmend Husaj, captain of Albania: “We have a very young team, we are trying to develop from match to match. I hope we can build on this victory for the upcoming games.” Belarus vs. Croatia 1-3 (25-21, 17-25, 19-25, 20-25) • The 211 cm tall opposite of Belarus, Artur Udrys, displayed a very solid blocking game in the early stages of the match and the attacks killed by Andrei Radziuk paved the way towards a 25-21 win for Belarus. • However, Croatia showed great defence in the remainder of the match and Belarus could not keep their pace high despite many substitutions. Leo Andrić scored two aces in a row to seal a 25-17 win for Croatia in the second set. • The setter of Croatia, Tsimafei Zhukouski, made it very difficult for Belarus to read the Croatian game. Andrić top scored in the end with 28 points as the only 17-year-old Uladzislau Davyskiba scored his first point (an ace) with the Belarusian senior national team. Viktar Beksha, head coach of Belarus: “Croatia played better in defence and obviously their serve today decided the outcome of the match. It was difficult for us to receive their serves. We need to work on our own mistakes.” Ivan Rančić, head coach of Croatia: “Our new team performed well here in Minsk. We carefully prepared for this game from a tactical standpoint. Belarus is one of the favourites of the Silver European League, so it was important for us to keep concentration and win. We are sure that we will have more interesting matches with this opponent.”

DAY 1 LEG 2 GROUP A Slovakia 3-1 Sweden (25-22 / 25-18 / 19-25 / 25-16) GROUP A Estonia 3-1 Belgium (25-16 / 25-20 / 27-29 / 25-17) GROUP B Turkey 3-2 Netherlands (25-23 / 21-25 / 25-20 / 20-25 / 15-12) GROUP B Ukraine 3-0 Slovenia (25-23 / 25-23 / 25-18) GROUP C Czech Republic 1-3 Finland (23-25 / 25-21 / 19-25 / 21-25) GROUP C Spain 3-0 Portugal (27-25 / 25-15 / 29-27) GROUP A Kosovo 0-3 Austria (18-25 / 12-25 / 17-25 ) GROUP A Latvia 3-0 Macedonia (25-17 / 25-16 / 25-19) GROUP B Hungary 1-3 Albania (25-22 / 21-25 / 21-25 / 23-25) GROUP B Belarus 1-3 Croatia (25-21 / 17-25 / 19-25 / 20-25)