The Austrian men’s national volleyball team was defeated 1-3 by Sweden (scores: 22-25, 18-25, 25-20, 23-25) on Friday evening in Amstetten. This result significantly reduces Austria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 CEV Golden League. Despite mounting a strong comeback in the third set and competing fiercely in a close fourth, the undefeated Swedish side ultimately maintained greater consistency.
Swedish players celebrate their 3-1 victory over Austria
Coach Gačič: “Details decided the match”
Head coach Radovan Gačič reflected on the game: “We struggled early on, partly because Sweden is a team that makes very few mistakes – which was true again today. We also didn’t serve effectively in the first two sets. In the end, small details made the difference, allowing Sweden to secure the 3-1 win.”
Austria battles back, fourth set drama
After losing the initial two sets with limited resistance, Austria impressively rallied in the third. They increased their service pressure and tightened their block-defence, winning the set 25-20. The fourth set was closely contested, with Austria holding leads at various points (10:6, 17:15, and 20:19). They even managed to save one match point at 22:24 but Sweden converted their second chance, ending the match after 106 minutes.
Outside hitter Lukas Glatz (13 points) commented, “Just like the first, the fourth set was really close. We gave everything in the third, but in the end, Sweden’s experience showed.”
Hosts Austria put up a much better fight in the third and fourth sets
Czerwinski leads for Austria
Michael Czerwinski was Austria’s top scorer once again, leading all players with 27 points. Paul Nusterer added 11 points for the home side. Sweden’s highest scorers were Jacob Ekman and Axel Enlund, both contributing 12 points.
Sweden’s head coach Gido Vermeulen was not entirely satisfied despite the victory: “We were aiming for a 3-0 win. Austria played well in the third set, and we lost a bit of energy. That’s why we brought in two fresh players to help us finish the fourth set. Losing that set complicates our position in the standings.”
Upcoming Matches: Hungary vs Sweden, Austria vs Hungary
Austria has a rest day on Saturday. The Silver League tournament in Amstetten continues with a significant match between Hungary and Sweden on June 28. Austria will return to the court on Sunday, June 29, for their final group stage match against Hungary.
Jasper Thornfield 
Finley Blackwood