Perugia’s Triumph Earns Spot in Champions League Final Four
In a significant milestone for the Sir Sicoma Monini Perugia volleyball team, they’ve completed a crucial mission, securing their place in the Final Four of the Champions League after a thrilling 3-1 victory against Mint Vero Volley Monza. This showdown, far from a foregone conclusion, showcased Monza's tenacity, but Perugia rose to the occasion once again, ensuring their passage to Lodz, Poland, for the event scheduled from May 16 to 18, 2025.
The next hurdle for the Block Devils is a familiar foe: Halkbank Ankara, who previously gave them a run for their money in the group stage. Although the dynamics differ significantly, hope springs eternal as the team gears up for a high-stakes rematch.
In this critical return match, Perugia demonstrated the fine form fans had hoped for. The first and third sets were marked by fluid gameplay and aggressive serving, while the second set was a missed opportunity that they’d likely prefer to forget. The finale, however, was nothing short of a celebration as the substitutes stepped up, orchestrating a remarkable comeback.
This achievement marks Perugia’s second appearance at this prestigious tournament since their debut in Rome in 2017. Their credentials remain impressive, yet reaching peak physical and mental condition will be paramount. It's those little details, beyond just technical abilities, that can tip the scales in crucial matches.
Before the excitement of the Champions League unfolds, Perugia must first focus on an upcoming playoff match at the PalaBarton in under seventy-two hours. They’re vying for a place in the semifinals, a target they'll want to hit as quickly as possible.
In terms of statistics from the match, Perugia showcased a healthy balance, winning the ace battle (9 to 4) and having parity in reception (both teams at 51%). The Block Devils edged slightly ahead at the net (8 to 7) and in attack efficiency (56% to 47%). Yuki Ishikawa was named MVP after bagging 19 points, including a block, and boasting an impressive offensive efficiency of 62%.
Coach Lorenzetti made the strategic decision to rest Semeniuk, opting instead for the ever-reliable Ishikawa in the starting lineup. The match began with a tussle as Averill’s misstep gave Perugia an 8-6 lead. An ace from Plontytskyi spurred a commanding 10-7 advantage that extended as Soli’s block made it 14-9. Monza’s Marttila managed a brief resurgence, nudging the score to 17-14, but Perugia responded fiercely, securing seven set points to clinch the first set 25-18.
The second set mirrored its predecessor initially, until Monza’s Swarc found an ace, maneuvering the score to a tense 15-15. Monza even took the lead at 15-16, a moment that saw Lorenzetti call a timeout, although it didn’t immediately halt their momentum. The set concluded with Perugia’s errors as Monza clinched it at 25-23.
After a swift regroup, Perugia started the third set strong, leading 8-6, and maintaining pressure through relentless serving. Ishikawa’s prowess shone as he captured the set with two aces, concluding the match decisively at 25-14.
