In a thrilling culmination of skill, strategy, and a touch of unforeseen drama, Norway`s men`s beach volleyball team has once again ascended to the pinnacle of European competition. On Sunday, July 20, 2025, in the sun-drenched coastal town of Espinho, Portugal, the “Beach Volley Vikings” cemented their legacy by claiming the CEV Beach Volley Nations Cup for the second time, a historic feat that sees them become the first nation to repeat as champions.
The Road to Gold: A Clash of Titans
The 2025 CEV Beach Nations Cup, a unique “country vs. country” format reminiscent of tennis`s Davis Cup, brought together Europe`s elite. For Norway, the journey to the final was marked by decisive victories, including a pair of commanding sweeps against Spain in the semifinals, showcasing their consistent form and depth. The Netherlands, their formidable opponents in the final, navigated their own path by overcoming Austria in a hard-fought semifinal, setting the stage for an epic showdown.
The air in Espinho was thick with anticipation as the two powerhouse nations prepared to face off at Praia da Baía. Both teams arrived with star-studded lineups, promising a final steeped in high-level play and strategic brilliance.
The Final Act: Drama, Injury, and a Golden Resolution
The decisive series against the Netherlands unfolded with a captivating narrative arc. The Dutch contingent, spearheaded by seasoned campaigners and rising talents, drew first blood. Rio Olympic bronze medalist Alexander Brouwer alongside Paris Olympian Steven van de Velde delivered a masterclass in their opening match, dispatching Norway`s Hendrik Mol and Mathias Berntsen in two decisive sets (21-11, 21-17). This early lead put immediate pressure on the defending champions, hinting at a potential upset.
However, the tide of the final was about to turn in an unforeseen manner. The second duel pitted Norway`s celebrated duo, Olympic, world, and four-time European champions Anders Mol and Christian Sørum, against the Dutch pair of Yorick de Groot and Stefan Boermans. The match began with intense rallies, but fate, in its often-cruel fashion, intervened. During the first set, Dutch defender Yorick de Groot sustained an injury that unfortunately prevented him from continuing. This unexpected turn of events resulted in a forfeit victory for the Norwegians, leveling the series at one match apiece. A win is a win, as they say, though one might argue that some victories come with a side of mixed feelings, especially when injury is involved.
With the score tied, the championship hinged on a dramatic “golden set.” This format, designed to provide a sudden-death resolution, requires mixed lineups from both countries, adding an extra layer of tactical intrigue. The Netherlands opted for the pairing of Stefan Boermans and Alexander Brouwer, while Norway countered with a potent combination of Anders Mol and Mathias Berntsen. The tension was palpable as the teams battled for every point. In the end, it was the Norwegians who demonstrated superior composure and execution, securing the title with a hard-fought 15-12 victory.
“To repeat as champions is a testament not just to individual talent, but to the collective strength and resilience of a national program. It`s a victory forged in both skill and perseverance.”
Beyond Espinho: A Ticket to the World Stage
The triumph in Espinho carried more than just the glory of another Nations Cup title. As a direct consequence of their victory, Norway earned a coveted extra spot in the upcoming 2025 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championship. Set to take place from November 14-23 in Australia, this continental pathway entry is a significant boost, allowing Norway to field an even stronger presence on the global stage. It underscores the Nations Cup`s critical role, beyond merely crowning European champions, in shaping international competition.
Norway`s return to the top of the men`s podium is a clear statement of intent. It reaffirms their position as a dominant force in beach volleyball and provides exciting anticipation for what their “Vikings” can achieve when they venture to the shores of Australia later this year. The tactical depth, individual brilliance, and a touch of good fortune that characterized their Espinho campaign suggest that the best may still be yet to come.
Torin Vale