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Galatasaray Madeş Mobilya has sensationally claimed the 2026 Turkish Men’s AXA Sigorta Champions Cup, triumphing over rivals Ziraat Bankkart in a thrilling 3-1 victory. The hard-fought match showcased intense volleyball action, ultimately seeing Galatasaray lift the coveted trophy.
Galatasaray’s Dominance in the Turkish Super Cup
The Istanbul giants established an early advantage, securing the first two sets with scores of 25-22 and 25-21. While Ziraat Bankkart mounted a strong comeback to win the third set 25-19, Galatasaray demonstrated resilience. Coach Andrea Gardini’s squad regrouped effectively, clinching the crucial fourth set 25-21 to seal their championship win after a compelling 121 minutes of play.
Standout Performances and Key Matchups
Leading the charge for Galatasaray was Stephen Maar, who delivered an MVP-worthy performance. Maar amassed an impressive 21 points, showcasing his all-around skill with 17 attacks and four crucial blocks. Efe Mandıracı provided strong support with 16 points, while French star Jean Patry added 12 points to the winning effort.
Despite the loss, Ziraat Bankkart’s Nimir Abdel-Aziz was the match’s highest scorer, erupting for 30 points. His offensive prowess included 24 successful attacks, four aces, and two blocks. Efe Bayram contributed 11 points, and Trevor Clévenot chipped in with 10 points for Ziraat.
Tactical Battle: Blocking and Attack Efficiency
Galatasaray’s strength at the net was a decisive factor in their Turkish Super Cup victory. They recorded 11 blocks compared to Ziraat Bankkart’s five, stifling their opponents’ offensive rhythm. Both teams displayed a solid 49% attack success rate, but Galatasaray’s superior blocking and clutch play in critical moments ultimately made the difference.
This victory marks a significant achievement for Galatasaray Madeş Mobilya, as it represents their second Turkish Champions Cup title. Their previous triumph came in 2019, making this win a welcome return to the top of Turkish men’s volleyball.
Match Details:
- Result: Ziraat Bankkart 1-3 Galatasaray Madeş Mobilya
- Top Scorers: Nimir Abdel-Aziz (30), Stephen Maar (21), Efe Mandıracı (16), Jean Patry (12)
- MVP: Stephen Maar (Galatasaray)
- Match Duration: 121 minutes
Galatasaray’s triumph in the Turkish Super Cup solidifies their position as a powerhouse in the league, setting an exciting tone for the upcoming season.
Source: World of Volley
