Hungary, Türkiye, Czechia, and Montenegro all commenced their #EuroVolleyU16W journey with comprehensive 3-0 victories in their initial matches, as the competition in Pool II officially started on Wednesday at the Palace of Youth and Sports in Prishtina, Kosovo. This marks the first time in history that the Final Round of a European Championship is held in this Balkan nation. In Pool I, taking place in Tirana, Italy and Spain secured wins without dropping a set against Lithuania and Albania, respectively. Poland defeated France 3-1, while Bulgaria needed a tiebreak to narrowly overcome Ukraine.
Match Summaries from Prishtina (Pool II)
Hungary vs Slovenia: Hungary began their CEV U16 Volleyball European Championship 2025 campaign in Pool II with an impressive straight-sets win over Slovenia. The Hungarian squad controlled the match from the start, demonstrating composure and tactical skill to earn a 3-0 victory (25-16, 25-22, 25-23). Slovenia showed resilience and improved throughout the match but couldn`t alter the outcome. Hungary set the pace in the first set with strong serves and effective blocks. Slovenia offered tougher resistance in the second set, improving their defence, but Hungary`s steady reception and quick attacks proved decisive. The third set was the most competitive, with Slovenia fighting point for point, but Hungary remained calm under pressure to clinch the set and the match. Hungary`s balanced effort and strategic execution highlight their strong ambitions, while Slovenia will aim to bounce back in future games.
Türkiye vs Greece: Türkiye delivered a dominant display in their opening match, sweeping Greece aside 3-0 (25-13, 25-17, 25-21). The Turkish team quickly established control, powering through the first set with strong serves and precise attacks that made it difficult for Greece to find their rhythm. The second set saw some resistance from Greece, but Türkiye`s organised defence and rapid offense maintained their advantage. The third set was more contested, with Greece showing improved coordination and fighting spirit. However, Türkiye`s experience and clinical finish in the closing moments secured the set and the straight-sets victory. This result marks a strong start for Türkiye in Pool II, showcasing their depth and teamwork. Greece, despite the loss, displayed promising moments and will look to build upon them in their next match.
Czechia vs Croatia: Czechia started their Pool II campaign with a 3-0 win over Croatia (27-25, 25-23, 25-13). The match began as a closely fought contest before Czechia asserted full control in the final set. The first two sets were tight battles with both teams exchanging points. Czechia narrowly won the first set 27-25 after saving a set point and demonstrating resilience. The second set followed a similar pattern, with Croatia staying close, but Czechia`s blocking and backcourt defence were key to securing a narrow 25-23 win. In the third set, Czechia significantly raised their level, overwhelming Croatia with aggressive serving and a fast offensive tempo. Their dominance at the net and minimal errors led to a commanding 25-13 finish, sealing the match in straight sets. With this victory, Czechia joins the list of early winners in Prishtina, while Croatia needs to regroup and convert their strong starts into full match performances.
Montenegro vs Kosovo: Montenegro opened their Pool II campaign with a decisive 3-0 win over the host nation Kosovo (25-15, 25-12, 25-6). Montenegro took control from the outset with high-pressure serves and disciplined net play. They built an early lead in the first set and maintained it comfortably despite energetic support for the home team. Kosovo struggled to gain momentum in the second set, as Montenegro increased their pace and capitalised on errors, pulling away for a 25-12 win. In the third and final set, Montenegro showcased their consistency and depth, storming through with a dominant 25-6 finish. Despite the defeat, the Kosovo team gained valuable experience playing their debut match before their home crowd. Montenegro, meanwhile, delivered a strong performance and will look to maintain their form as Pool II competition heats up in Prishtina.
Jasper Thornfield 
Finley Blackwood