Bogdanka LUK Lublin recorded their third consecutive victory in Group B of the Champions League and took sole lead of the standings. The Polish champion defeated Galatasaray as guests in Istanbul with a 3:1 set score and this time avoided a tie-break – considering that in the other matches of the group, four games had already been decided in the fifth set.

The match was played in the "Burhan Felek" hall and lasted 110 minutes, with Bogdanka's class and squad depth making a difference after the first set.

Serious personnel problem for Galatasaray

Even before the start of the match, alarming news came from the Turkish camp. Galatasaray played without two of their key figures – opposite hitter Jean Patry and captain and main setter Arslan Ekşi, who were sidelined by a severe viral infection.

The absence of Olympic champion Patry deprived the hosts of their main offensive power, and Ekşi's absence disrupted the rhythm and organization of their play. Michael Wright started as setter, and the main burden on the opposite position fell on Can Koç. Galatasaray tried to compensate with fighting spirit, but against Bogdanka's balanced and deep squad, this proved insufficient.

First Set

The beginning was even, with the score going point for point. A series of errors from the guests allowed Galatasaray to take the lead, and in the decisive rallies, the hosts showed more composure and won the set after a prolonged battle.

Second Set

Bogdanka's reaction was immediate. Improved blocking and more aggressive serving turned the tide, and Wilfredo León and Hiliir Eno led the attack. The Polish team equalized without serious hesitation.

Third Set

Bogdanka took full control. Their serve disrupted Galatasaray's reception, and León and Eno regularly found gaps in the defense. The lead was maintained until the end.

Fourth Set

An even start, but after the midpoint, the guests' class became evident. Alex Grozdanov intervened decisively with a block, and the run was closed after a service error from the hosts.

Final Score

Galatasaray – Bogdanka LUK Lublin 1:3
(26:24, 17:25, 19:25, 18:25)

Individual Statistics

The numbers clearly show why Bogdanka came back after the first set. Leon was dominant – 21 points, excellent efficiency, and key aces in decisive moments. Grozdanov, although with a lower attack percentage, compensated with 3 blocks, the last of which brought him match point at 23:17 in the fourth set.

For Galatasaray, Koc and Maar bore the attacking burden, but the absence of Patri and Exi significantly affected the stability and depth of their play.

In short – the decisive numbers from the match

Bogdanka LUK Lublin outperforms Galatasaray in all key elements \u2013 attack (+11 points), block (+3), and serve (+3 aces). The difference in total points (96:78) clearly shows the controlled development of the match after the first set. The Polish team pressed with a more effective offense and more stable play at the net, while Galatasaray, weakened by personnel issues, failed to keep up the pace in long rallies.

MVP

Wilfredo Le don

What's next

Bogdanka LUK Lublin's next match is at home:

27/01/2026, 21:30
Hala Globus Tomasz W towicz Lublin
Bogdanka LUK Lublin Knack Roeselare

The Polish champion is in an excellent position to solidify its leadership in Group B and take a decisive step towards the knockout stage.

photos: CEV.eu