Slovenian women reach European League semifinals

The Slovenian women's volleyball team has advanced to the European League semifinals, securing their place with a decisive 3-0 victory over Croatia in Skopje. The team dominated the match, winning with set scores of 22, 21, and 24, ensuring their progression with one game left in the current tournament stage.

This significant achievement places Slovenia at the top of the league standings. Regardless of the outcome of their final match against host North Macedonia, the Slovenian team is guaranteed to finish the regular season in at least fourth place. The victory over Croatia marks a strong performance, demonstrating the team's skill and determination.

Throughout the match against Croatia, the competition remained close, particularly in the first two sets. In the first set, both teams exchanged points until 16-16, after which Slovenia pulled ahead with a 7-2 run. Although Croatia managed to close the gap, Slovenia secured the set. The second set followed a similar pattern, with Slovenia establishing a crucial four-point lead after a 10-10 tie, maintaining it until the end of the set.

The third set saw Slovenia initially holding a slight advantage. However, Croatia rallied, even taking a 23-22 lead. Slovenia, led by Lorena Lorber Fijok and strong blocking from Nika Milošič and Saša Planinšec, managed to overcome the deficit and clinch the set and the match. Lorena Lorber Fijok was the top scorer with 15 points, supported by Maša Pucelj with 13 points, and Nika Milošič and Saša Planinšec each contributing 10 points, with several blocks from the latter two.

Coach Alessandro Orefice has guided the Slovenian team to this success. The team's reception was solid, though analysts noted a potential need for more aggression in their serves. This performance places Slovenia among the top contenders in the European League, alongside Sweden, which also remains undefeated in sets.