Galatasaray Daikin Istanbul took a significant step towards the CEV Volleyball Cup 2026 Women’s final, securing a commanding 3-0 victory (25-14, 25-15, 25-19) against CSO Voluntari 2005 in the first leg of their semi-final clash at the Burhan Felek Volleyball Hall.
The Turkish team asserted control from the outset against their Romanian opponents. Following an initial balanced exchange, Galatasaray surged ahead in the first set with a powerful series of points, clinching it effortlessly 25-14.
Voluntari attempted to remain competitive early in the second set, but Galatasaray’s intense serving and robust defense once again proved crucial. The home team widened their advantage towards the end of the set, ultimately winning it 25-15, putting them just one set away from victory.
Galatasaray began the third set with an explosive 8-0 run, dictating the pace for the remainder of the frame. Despite Voluntari’s brief efforts to narrow the deficit, the hosts quickly re-established their dominance, securing the set 25-19 and sealing a comprehensive straight-sets triumph.
Alexia Carutasu was the standout performer, leading all scorers with an impressive 17 points, which included four aces and two blocks. Captain Ilkin Aydin also contributed significantly with 11 points. For Voluntari, Hannah Duchesneau was their top scorer, ending the match with 15 points.
The second leg of the semi-final is scheduled for March 18th in Bucharest. Galatasaray will need to win only two sets in that match to guarantee their spot in the final.