Allianz Milan, qualification mortgaged: 3-0 in Czestochowa

Allianz Milano’s European version is getting more and more convincing. The away match in Czestochowa, valid for the first leg of the quarterfinals of the CEV Volleyball Challenge Cup, ends in the best way: a clear 3-0 win against a far from easy opponent, led by such international names as De Cecco, Ebadipour, Indra and coach Travica.

The Poles, however, had to surrender to the freshness, athleticism and organization of Roberto Piazza’s team, which was superior in serve and wall and capable of defending every ball. Making the evening even more special was the return to the court of Tatsunori Otsuka: after being out of action since Boxing Day, the Japanese setter savored the court again, albeit for a few rotations, showing good feelings even in the front line.

On the other side of the net, Norwid confirms the difficulties already emerged in PlusLiga: a balanced match up to 20, then the drop that paves the way for Milan’s decisive stretch.

There is room for celebration, but only for a moment. Thoughts immediately turn to the SuperLega: Sunday at the Allianz Cloud comes Rana Verona, fresh winners of the Del Monte Coppa Italia, for a challenge that promises spectacle and great intensity.