Eczacibasi Istanbul has defeated Vero Volley Milano in Matchday 3 of the 2025/2026 CEV Champions League (Group C) at the Eczacibasi Spor Salonu.

It was a true thriller, with the Turkish squad prevailing in the decisive fifth set. The final score was 25-21, 20-25, 22-25, 25-22, 15-13.

After losing the opening set, Milano showed great character by recovering well and taking both the second and third sets. With Paola Egonu once again leading the way and scoring 27 points, the Italians looked in control and close to sealing another European win. 

Yet the fourth set slipped away from them, and that proved decisive — Eczacibasi seized the chance to come back into the match, riding the momentum and the energy of their home crowd.

In the tie-break, the Turkish side held their nerve. Sinead Jack-Kisal stood out with 21 points, helping her team edge Milano in a nail-biting finish.

For Milano, it was their first defeat of the season in the competition, despite a strong performance and Egonu’s brilliance. For Eczacibasi, it was a statement victory, showing resilience and the ability to fight back when the match seemed to be slipping away.

In the other games, Imoco Volley Conegliano delivered a dominant away performance, sweeping ŁKS Commercecon Łódź of Poland in straight sets in Group D.

Meanwhile, also in Group D, Zeren Spor Kulübü continued their strong start to the competition, claiming a convincing second consecutive victory with a 3-0 win over Germany’s Dresdner SC 1898.

Finally in Group E, VC Maritza of Bulgaria secured a 3-1 triumph against Levallois Paris Saint-Cloud from France.

Photos: European Volleyball