Fri. Jan 2nd, 2026

Men’s CEV Fantasy Spotlight: Team of the Week

CEV Champions League Volley 2026 | Article

The latest round of the CEV Men’s Champions League Volley 2026 delivered thrilling action and numerous exceptional performances. Several key athletes delivered crucial plays, securing their spots in the official Fantasy Team of the Week. Here is a detailed look at how each player earned their place.

Stephen Timothy Maar – Outside Hitter

Maar delivered one of the most dominant individual performances of the round. Tallying 26 points (21 attacks, 2 kill blocks, 3 aces), his crucial contributions enabled Galatasaray to narrowly defeat Knack ROESELARE in a grueling match. His ability to score reliably in high-pressure situations makes him an immediate fantasy favorite.

Milosz Zniszczol – Middle Blocker

Zniszczol showcased remarkable efficiency in the middle for Aluron, achieving 9 points (4 attacks, 4 blocks, 1 ace) with an outstanding 80% hitting percentage. His strong and timely presence at the net was vital in their victory over Asseco Resovia, anchoring both the defense and attack.

Karol Butryn – Opposite

Even though Resovia fell to Aluron, Karol Butryn`s powerful offensive display could not be ignored. He registered 27 total points—one of the highest fantasy scores of the round—via 23 attacks, 3 aces, and 1 block. His immense offensive output proved that individual excellence can shine through even in defeat.

Yurii Semeniuk – Middle Blocker

Semeniuk was a defensive force as Projekt Warszawa triumphed over Volley Haasrode Leuven. He totaled 12 points, primarily relying on his net presence (5 attacks, 6 kill blocks, 1 ace). The six kill blocks were instrumental in disrupting Leuven`s offensive rhythm, cementing his spot in this week’s lineup.

CEV Fantasy Team of the Week lineup graphic

Wilfredo León Venero – Outside Hitter

Making a memorable Champions League Fantasy debut, Wilfredo León scored 18 points, including 4 aces and 3 blocks, alongside a stellar 65% attack efficiency. His explosive presence provided the necessary firepower for LUK Lublin`s significant win against last season’s Final Four contender, Halkbank Ankara, bringing decisiveness exactly when needed.

Simone Giannelli – Setter

Simone Giannelli reaffirmed his status as an elite setter, steering reigning champions Perugia to a comeback victory against VK Lvi PRAHA and earning the MVP award. While he contributed 7 points offensively (6 kill blocks and 1 ace), his true value lay in his ability to control the game`s pace, generate favorable attacking opportunities, and provide essential defensive leadership, making him a crucial asset for any fantasy team.

Berkay Bayraktar – Libero

Bayraktar was the defensive anchor for Ziraat, achieving a 53% positive reception rate in their crucial win over TOURS VB. His consistent and precise passing kept the team in system, providing Ziraat with the essential stability needed to dictate the rhythm of the match.

Karol Butryn led the scoring charts in Leg 1, with the rest of the top fantasy performers close behind.

CEV Fantasy Top Performer Leaderboard

If you enjoyed the action and the performance breakdown, register now and build your team for the next round of CEV Fantasy!

#CLVolleyM

By Oliver Wrenwick

A passionate volleyball correspondent based in Brighton, Oliver has spent the last decade covering the sport's highs and lows. Known for his pitch-perfect analysis and courtside interviews, he brings readers closer to the game with vivid storytelling and insider perspectives.

Related Post