Galatasaray rise in Istanbul to claim CEV Volleyball Cup glory
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Galatasaray Daikin Istanbul completed a sensational European campaign with a commanding 3-1 victory over Reale Mutua Fenera Chieri '76, turning the final into a night of triumph in front of their home fans. After dropping a tight opening set, the Turkish side responded with authority, showcasing composure, depth, and championship mentality to secure the CEV Volleyball Cup 2026 title.
In a night where history met destiny, Galatasaray Daikin Istanbul crowned their remarkable European journey by lifting the CEV Volleyball Cup trophy in front of a roaring home crowd at Burhan Felek.
It didn’t begin as a celebration. Chieri came out fearless, stealing the opening set 27-25 after a tense battle that echoed the drama of the first leg. But this Galatasaray side had already proven, just a week earlier, that they thrive under pressure.
From that moment on, the Turkish powerhouse took control.
Led by an inspired İlkin Aydın, Galatasaray flipped the rhythm of the match. With precision in reception (55% perfect) and dominance at the net, they responded with authority, 25-22 in the second set, to level things. Then came the real statement.
Set three and four were a showcase of control, confidence, and composure. Alexia Carutasu delivered key points, Myriam Sylla brought experience and firepower, while the team’s blocking system shut down Chieri’s attacking options. Both sets ended 25-18, but the scoreline barely captured the growing gap in momentum.
On the other side, Chieri fought through Anett Németh and Stella Nervini, but the consistency and depth of Galatasaray proved too much in the decisive phases.
As the final point hit the floor, the arena erupted, as Galatasaray Daikin Istanbul were crowned the CEV Volleyball Cup champions.
Fittingly, the MVP award went to İlkin Aydın, who delivered a complete performance: 19 points, leadership in crucial moments, and a presence that defined the final.
From surviving a dramatic 5-set battle in Turin to finishing the job at home, Galatasaray’s journey was one of resilience, belief, and growth, ending in gold.