With the 3-1 win in Ankara record title holders Zenit KAZAN have given their 2020 Champions League start the needed boost. After losing in a dramatical match to VC Greenyard MAASEIK last week, KAZAN have lifted spirits before the winter break by beating Halkbank in their home of Ankara. Kazan are now second in Pool C with a win and a loss after two matches. JASTRZEBSKI Wegiel and MAASEIK will fight for the top spot going into 2020.

The start to the match was best for KAZAN, but their initial lead of several points disappeared at 24-24. Turkish top scorer of the match today (Metin Toy, 18) pulled out a winning ace on setpoint to secure the opening set. 

KAZAN had their work cut out for them, trailing by a set in an away match. But club icon Maxim Mikhailov reached for the stars, his 26 points helped Alexey Verbov's team to victory. With Tsvetan Sokolov contributing 21 the victory was there in Ankara. On the 18th of January KAZAN and JASTRZEBSKI will play the postponed first leg match, we'll then have a good comparison for the standings in Pool C.

Taner Atik, Head Coach of Halkbank ANKARA: "What was good was our block and our defence. It is not easy to play against this kind of a strong team. They have a very good service. They used their talents more than we did. I congratulate them and also my players because they did a good job tonight."

Efe Bayram, outside hitter for Halkbank ANKARA: "Tonight, it was good volleyball. We are not happy with the result, but we know they are stronger. They are the strongest team. We had good reception, good attack for the first two sets. Anyway it was good volleyball for spectators."

Alexey VERBOV, Head Coach of Zenit KAZAN: "Today was very tough match, not so easy for us. We are not in a very good shape. We had too many traveling lately. We played against VC Greenyard MAASEIK and my team wasn't 100% ready. We had two players who twisted their ankles. I want to say very good words for Turkish team. They played very well. We lost concentration. I am still happy that we won. Now we want to return home and we will play against KEMEROVO in our league and will have some time to have a rest before the other important matches start."

Tsvetan Sokolov, opposite for Zenit KAZAN: "I think we did not play our game. It was a little difficult today. Most important thing was that we won. I am happy to meet with my ex teammates. Now we have to get ready for the Russian Cup which is very difficult too."