Jasmin Velichkov was the brightest name for Vero Volley Monza, despite the 3:0 (25:20, 25:17, 25:17) loss to Itas Trentino in the first semifinal for fifth place. The Bulgarian outside hitter finished with 14 points, 1 block, 64% positive reception and 50% in attack, being the only player in the away team's roster with a double-digit score.

Monza offered resistance mainly in the first set, but Trento dictated its pace with more stable play on serve and at the net.
In the other semifinal, Valsa Group Modena also took the first step towards the final, after defeating Allianz Milano with a score of 3:1 (25:23, 38:36, 22:25, 25:22). The match offered significant intrigue, with the second set turning into a true marathon and ending 38:36 after 44 minutes of play.
Vlad Davyskiba played a key role in the hosts' success, turning the tide as early as the first set, while Buchegger was decisive in crucial moments.

For Milano, Ferre Reggers scored 30 points, but his efforts were not enough.
Thus, Trento and Modena took a 1-0 lead in their series, with the return matches scheduled for April 25 and 26, respectively.

Photos: legavolley.it