The complete lineup for the CEV EuroVolley 2026 Women`s tournament is just days away from being finalized. However, five nations have already secured their spots mathematically based on last night`s qualifying results.
In Pool A, Germany clinched the top position by defeating Switzerland in straight sets. The upcoming match between Switzerland and Finland on Sunday will determine the second-place finisher, who will then be considered for qualification among the best second-seeded teams.
In Pool B, Belgium concluded their campaign by defeating Hungary, thereby securing their direct qualification for EuroVolley 2026. This Sunday, second-place Hungary will host Denmark, aiming to secure all points and enhance their chances of becoming the second team from their pool to qualify.
In Pool C, a dominant Slovenia completed their qualifying campaign with a perfect record, easily overcoming Israel in straight sets. The final match of this pool, scheduled for Saturday, is crucial: a win for Estonia could eliminate both themselves and Israel, while an Israeli victory would give them 6 points and a strong chance at advancing.
In Pool D, the situation remains less clear. While Bosnia & Herzegovina has finished their campaign and is confirmed to be eliminated, Montenegro and Latvia will compete in their final match to determine automatic qualification. Both teams currently have strong prospects and might even celebrate their advancement together after Sunday`s match, regardless of who wins the automatic spot.
In Pool E, Spain`s victory against Portugal last night secured their almost perfect qualification record and a spot at EuroVolley 2026. Portugal, on the other hand, hopes that a win against Georgia this weekend will be sufficient to earn their own place in next year`s tournament.
In Pool F, Greece became the second team in the qualifiers to finish with a flawless record after their win against Austria. Despite the loss, Austria will now host North Macedonia. Similar to Pool C, an Austrian win would greatly improve their qualification chances, whereas a North Macedonian victory would most likely lead to both teams` elimination.
Finally, the Pool G battle between Romania and Croatia, two familiar faces at EuroVolley tournaments, has been exceptionally exciting. While Romania`s campaign has concluded and they currently top the pool, this could change on Saturday when Croatia hosts Kosovo. A Croatian win would claim the qualification spot as pool winners from Romania. However, both teams appear to be strong candidates for advancement, given their statistics compared to second-placed teams in other pools.
One more round remains before the full 24-team lineup for CEV EuroVolley 2026 can be announced.
Jasper Thornfield 
Finley Blackwood