Steaua Bucharest had a successful rehearsal before their return match against Khilasedichi BAKU in the Challenge Cup, after defeating SCM Zalau at home with a score of 3:1, aided by the participation of Krasimir Georgiev and Svetoslav Ivanov, who continue to be part of coach Marcelo Fronckowiak's stable rotation.

The guests won the first set with 25:22, impressing with their defense and many saved balls in the backcourt. This forced Fronckowiak to make a key change – at 8:11 in the second set, he replaced captain Radke with Claudiu Dumitru. The new setter diversified the game, involved the middle blockers, and opened up more spaces for Baetens and Rata.

With the change, Steaua played more confidently and turned the match around, maintaining their status as the only undefeated men's team in Romania this season.
The Bulgarians Ivanov (7 pts) and Georgiev (1 pt) received playing time, which once again showed the Romanian public that Steaua relies on a strong Bulgarian presence in its squad.

Score:

Steaua – SCM Zalau 3:1 (22-25, 25-18, 25-22, 25-23)

Steaua enters the return match of the Challenge Cup with a full squad and in good spirits. The participation of the Bulgarians Ivanov and Georgiev adds even more confidence before the important European away game.