Romania stun Ukraine to reach first-ever EuroVolley 2026 quarter-final
Romania beat Ukraine 3-0 in Arena Sofia; Finland and France also advanced to the last eight.
Romania produced one of the tournament's biggest surprises at EuroVolley 2026 on 20 September 2026, reaching the quarter-finals for the first time in their history. In the round of 16 in Arena Sofia they defeated Ukraine 3-0 with set scores of 25-22, 25-21 and 30-28.
Decisive performance in Sofia
Under coach Sergiu Stancu, Romania played a composed and efficient match and did not allow Ukraine to win a set. Alexandru Raca finished as Romania's top scorer with 16 points, while Cristian-Daniel Kicigoj added 11 points to secure the historic victory.
Finland also advanced to the last eight after a dramatic five-set win over Greece. The match swung back and forth — Greece led 1-0 and 2-1 in sets — but Finland completed the comeback and prevailed 3-2 (22-25, 26-16, 22-25, 25-23, 15-13).
The Martila brothers, Luca and Noa, were decisive for Finland, combining for 42 points between them.
Olympic champions France moved into the quarter-finals without major trouble, beating Portugal 3-0 in the round of 16 with set scores of 25-21, 25-22 and 25-21. The victory reaffirmed France's status as one of Europe's top teams at the continental championship.
Photo: CEV.eu
