The group stage of the CEV U16 Women`s European Championship 2025 has reached its conclusion for Pool II, confirming the final lineup for the semi-finals. Following decisive victories in their final matches, Czechia and Türkiye have successfully navigated the group phase to join Italy and Poland in the pursuit of the European title. The tournament now shifts gears and location, moving to Tirana for the crucial knockout rounds.
Czechia Seals Top Spot with Authority
Czechia secured their place in the semi-finals with a professional 3-0 dismantling of Hungary (25-16, 25-23, 25-23) in their final Pool II fixture in Prishtina. Coming off a recent setback, the Czech side demonstrated composure and technical execution, particularly in the tightly contested second and third sets. While Hungary fought valiantly, especially with their semi-final hopes on the line, Czechia maintained control in key moments, closing out the match in straight sets. This victory solidified Czechia`s position atop Pool II with an impressive 6-1 win-loss record, marking them as a formidable contender heading into the semi-finals.
Türkiye Joins the Party After Dominant Performance
Türkiye also punched their ticket to the semi-finals, delivering a commanding 3-0 performance against the host nation, Kosovo (25-14, 25-14, 25-13). Needing a win to guarantee a top-two finish, Türkiye approached the match with notable focus and intensity. Their superior depth and tactical execution were evident from the outset, controlling the pace with effective serving and dominant net play. While Kosovo, making their debut at the European Championship, showed commendable fighting spirit in front of their home crowd, Türkiye`s consistency proved too much. The victory secured Türkiye second place in Pool II with a 5-2 record, earning them a well-deserved spot in the final four.
The Semifinal Stage is Set
With the group stage now complete, the highly anticipated semi-final matchups are confirmed. Pool II winners, Czechia, will face Pool I runners-up, Poland. Meanwhile, Pool II runners-up, Türkiye, face a significant challenge against Italy, the undefeated champions of Pool I, who boast a perfect 7-0 record from the group stage. These pairings promise thrilling encounters as four of the strongest U16 teams in Europe vie for a place in the final.
Elsewhere in Pool II
While the focus was on the semi-final qualifiers, other matches completed the Pool II schedule. Slovenia wrapped up their campaign with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Montenegro in a five-set battle (25-22, 15-25, 15-25, 29-27, 16-14). After losing control in sets two and three, Slovenia mounted a remarkable comeback, saving match points in the fourth set before holding their nerve in the tie-break. Croatia also finished strongly, defeating Greece 3-1 (25-10, 18-25, 25-10, 25-14). Croatia dominated the sets they won with high pressure and control, though Greece managed to take the second set. These results saw Slovenia, Montenegro, Croatia, and Greece finish outside the top two spots necessary for semi-final qualification.
All attention now turns to Tirana, where the final four teams will compete in the semi-finals, bringing the 2025 CEV U16 Women`s European Championship closer to its climax.