Vakifbank back on Top as European teams dominate the World Champs
News
The Turkish giants from Vakifbank Istanbul have managed to overcome Conegliano in the world champs Final and win an unprecedented 4th world title in front of an enthusiastic home crowd at the Ankara Sports Hall.
As has been the case for the past several years, the battle between Imoco Conegliano and Vakifbank Istanbul has spread across seasons and competitions, with most of the encounters having titles on the line.
In that regard, nothing changed at this year’s world champs with the two teams going toe to toe in yet another enthralling encounter lasting 5 sets (3-2: 25-15, 22-25, 25-22, 22-25, 15-7), and with solid individual performances across the board, especially from tournament MVP Isabelle Haak.
Paola Egonu’s 62 swings and match high 35 points, the only 30+ scoring performance of the tournament, were not enough for Conegliano to secure their defense of the world title coming short in the tie –break.
Giovanni Guidetti"It was special to win this trophy in front of these amazing people, but I also want to thank my players and staff, because to beat a team such as Conegliano you have to play extra great."
Vakifbank's Head Coach
In the bronze match medal, Arina Federovtseva’s 21 points were a match high and her overall performance spurred Fenerbahce on to winning bronze by defeating the Brazilian champions, Minas.
Third medal for Fenerbahce at the world champs in their history, having claimed gold over a decade ago (2010) and bronze in 2012.
Zoran Terzic"I'm very happy - it's not a small thing to win a medal in a World Club Championship. We are a new team with a lot of young players and this is a great start at this time."
Fenerbahce's Head Coach
All three teams will be back in action this week in the CEV Champions League Volley!
