NOVA GORICA marches on with further home triumph in #CEVChallengeCupW

GEN-I Volley NOVA GORICA delivered a confident and well controlled performance in the first round of the #CEVChallengeCupW 8th Finals, defeating C.S.M. LUGOJ of Romania in straight sets (25-17, 25-16, 25-20) on home soil. 

The opening set began evenly, with both teams exchanging the first points. The hosts quickly found their rhythm and took an early lead at 5-2, supported by strong serving pressure. Even though the visitors managed to reduce the gap on several occasions, the home side maintained control throughout the set. An ace at 20-15 further increased the advantage, and NOVA GORICA calmly closed the set 25-17.

The second set saw LUGOJ starting slightly stronger and taking an early 3-1 lead. GEN-I Volley responded well, equalising at 5-5 and continuing to build momentum. After the score reached 11-11, the hosts raised their level, going on a decisive run to 16-11. C.S.M. LUGOJ struggled to find answers against their rival’s well-organised play and service pressure, allowing the home team to secure the second set by 25-16.

C.S.M. LUGOJ opened the third set by scoring the first two points, but the teams remained close until the mid-phase of the set. GEN-I Volley regained the lead at 10-8, though LUGOJ briefly edged ahead at 10-11. From that moment on, the local favourites took full control, stringing together multiple point runs to build a solid advantage. Despite a late push from the visitors, GEN-I stayed composed and closed the match with a 25-20 win.

With this 3-0 victory, NOVA GORICA continue their strong European campaign, showing discipline, consistency, and confidence throughout the match, with the return game now scheduled for January 14 in Romania. GEN-I Volley will have to take two sets there to secure their progression to the quarterfinals.