Greenyard Maaseik started 2026 with an important European victory, after defeating the French Tourcoing Lille Métropole with3:1 (23:25, 25:23, 25:22, 25:15)in Steengoed Arena. The match lasted 123 minutes and offered dynamic volleyball, in which the Belgian team completely controlled the game after the first set.
The guests from Tourcoing started more confidently and managed to snatch the opening set with 25:23, but Maaseik gradually stabilized their reception and attack organization, and the block became a key factor in turning the match around.
| Statistic | Greenyard Maaseik | Tourcoing Lille Métropole |
|---|---|---|
| Attack points | 51 | 46 |
| Blocks (kill block) | 16 | 6 |
| Aces | 1 | 5 |
| Points from opponent errors | 25 | 27 |
| Total points | 93 | 84 |
Maaseik convincingly dominated in blocking – 16 against 6, which turned the dynamic after the first set. In attack, the home team showed higher efficiency, and despite a smaller number of aces, they compensated with fewer unforced errors. Tourcoing relied mainly on serves, but failed to withstand the increasing attack pressure from the Belgians.
For the guests, Venislav Antov was the most effective with 16 points, scoring 13 in attack, adding 2 aces, 3 blocks, and achieving 44% efficiency in attack. The Bulgarian receiver was the main driving force in the first two sets, but Maaseik subsequently managed to neutralize him through a high block and more aggressive serving.
For the home team, Sil Meijs was outstanding, scoring 26 points and being the leading factor in Maaseik's attack, especially in the third and fourth sets, when the Belgian team completely dominated.
The return leg is scheduled for January 6, with Tourcoing Lille Métropole needing a 3:0 or 3:1 victory to force a "golden set". Maaseik, on the other hand, will enter the match with a comfortable lead and psychological advantage after their strong home performance.
