Slovenia and Hungary secure tickets to #EuroVolleyU18M and #EuroVolleyU18W via MEVZA qualifiers

The final day of the U18 MEVZA championships brought the answer as to who would lift the trophies in both the men’s and women’s competitions. Hungary claimed the title in the women’s tournament, while Slovenia emerged as champions in the men’s category, with both teams also securing direct qualification for this summer’s European Championship in this age group.

U18 Men in Maribor (SLO) 

In the men’s final played in Maribor, Slovenia delivered a dominant performance against Czechia, winning the gold medal match in straight sets 3-0 (25-19, 25-16, 25-21). The match lasted just 77 minutes and confirmed Slovenia’s superiority throughout the tournament, earning them direct qualification for the European Championship due to take place later this year in Italy. 

The bronze medal match saw Austria defeat Croatia 3-1 (25-14, 24-26, 25-23, 25-22), thereby securing third place after a competitive encounter.

U18 Women in Zadar (CRO) 

The women’s final in Zadar delivered a thrilling five-set battle. Hungary defeated hosts Croatia 3-2 (18-25, 24-26, 25-20, 25-18, 15-7) to claim the MEVZA title. Despite strong support from the home crowd, Croatia lost momentum after winning the first two sets. Hungary capitalised on the shift, regained control of the match and completed a remarkable comeback to lift the trophy. With the victory, Hungary also secured a direct spot at the European Championship this summer – with the event due to take place in Latvia and Lithuania. 

The bronze medal in the women’s tournament went to Slovenia, who defeated Slovakia in straight sets 3-0 (25-17, 25-16, 25-21).

But all is not lost for other teams because they will try to earn a spot at the European Championship through a second round of qualifications scheduled for the end of March.