Brazil's Praia Clube, featuring Mariya Koleva, achieved its second consecutive victory at the FIVB Volleyball Women's Club World Championship and moved closer to qualifying for the semifinals, after defeating the American Orlando Valkyries 3:0 (25:23, 25:15, 28:26) in Sao Paulo.

The team from Uberlândia had already won 3:0 against Egypt's Zamalek in its first match and can secure a place in the Top 4 today if favorite Conegliano defeats the Egyptian representative. Thus, tomorrow's final match between Praia and the Italians will only be for positioning.

Praia started the first set confidently and took a four-point lead, but fluctuations at the end and serving errors allowed Valkyries to close the gap. However, the experience of setter Macris and middle blocker Adenízia tipped the scales 25:23.

The second set started identically an early lead for the Brazilians, followed by an equalizer. The most worrying moment occurred with the injury to Finga, who twisted her ankle upon landing and left the court in tears. Substitute Monique managed to stabilize the game, and Praia pulled away after 14:12 to convincingly close the set 25:15.

The third set was the most contested. For the first time, the Americans took the lead and even pulled five points ahead. After a decisive intervention from coach Rui Moreira, Praia regained its focus. Valkyries missed two set points, and the inspired Michelle and Adenízia (both with 14 points each) finished the resistance 28:26.

Adenízia led in scoring with 15 points, impressing primarily with her stable blocking game a total of 6 point-scoring blocks, which truly tipped the balance in key moments. Michelle contributed 14 points with high efficiency, placing her among the most reliable attackers on the court. Kafri and Milka also formed a balanced attacking quartet, while Finga, despite a good start, dropped out due to injury but left 8 points before leaving.

Setter Macris added 2 points, but her role in organizing the game was more important, despite the technical errors recorded.

Mariya Koleva, although used partially, scored 2 points from attack with good efficiency. Her participation showed that she can be useful in rotations, especially when there is a need to strengthen reception or add variability to the attack.
Praia Clube's next match is on Thursday at 1:30 PM against Conegliano.