Volleyball fans witnessed one of the most incredible matches in Champions League history, as Developres Rzeszów (Poland) defeated Allianz MTV Stuttgart (Germany) 3:1 (25-21, 22-25, 45-43, 25-20). The match, which is the first of the playoff phase, took place in front of 1769 spectators at SCHARRena, who became part of a true volleyball spectacle.

Historical third set

Although the match was expectedly contested, no one could have predicted the drama in the third set, which will go down in the tournament's history. Stuttgart led 15-11, but a five-point run by Rzeszów turned the score around. This was just the beginning of an unprecedented set, in whichthe hosts had eight set points, and the guests – thirteen. In the end, Developres managed to win with an incredible 45-43 after55 minutes of exhausting battle.

Key moments

The first set started evenly, but a series of serves by Marrit Jasper gave a decisive advantage to Rzeszów, who closed the set with 25-21. Stuttgart showed character and equalized the score, winning the second set with 25-22, but the exhaustion after the drama in the third set had its effect in the fourth set. Despite being tied at 16-16, Developres pushed at the end and closed the match with 25-20.

Individual awards

Brazilian star Sabrina Machado was named MVP of the match, scoring 33 points, including the last one - an ace that ended the match. On the other side of the net, opposite Krystal Rivers also delivered an impressive performance with 32 points for Stuttgart.

What's next?

Developres Rzeszów will host the return leg on February 20, where Stuttgart will need an exceptional performance to stay in the competition. The winner will face Conegliano in the quarter-finals of the tournament.

Match facts:

• 1769 spectators watched the match live

• Sabrina Machado (Rzeszów) – 33 points, MVP

• Krystal Rivers (Stuttgart) – 32 points

• Marrit Jasper (Rzeszów) – 19 points

• The third set ended with a historic score of 45-43