Megabox Ondulati del Savio Vallefoglia qualified for the next stage of the CEV Challenge Cup after eliminating AEK Athens in a match decided by a 'golden set'. The Italians lost one set, but after the second part, they took full control and demonstrated greater class and stability.

Loveth Omoruyi was the main figure with 31 points and 60% attack efficiency, supported by the strong play of middle blockers Butigan and Candi, who totaled 21 blocks – a key factor in Megabox's dominance.

Bulgarian international Mikaela Stoyanova was in the squad for the match and finished with 0 points, without game participation, but remains part of Daniele Pistola's team in the European campaign. The other Bulgarian, Tsvetomira Mitkova, also did not participate.

Vallefoglia started confidently with 25:20 in the first set, but AEK brought back the intrigue with 25:21 in the second set. From then on, the Italian team stabilized and won the third set 25:21, and the fourth became a demonstration of strength – 25:13.

In the decisive 'golden set', Vallefoglia left no chance for the Greek team: a convincing 15:7 and confident qualification for the Round of 16 of the tournament.

Vallefoglia – AEK Athens 3:1 (25:20, 21:25, 25:21, 25:13); Golden set: 15:7.

In the Round of 16, Vallefoglia will face Fatum Nyíregyháza (Hungary) – a team with traditions in European tournaments and a strong home court advantage.

photos:CEV