The Montenegrin women’s volleyball team concluded its journey in the European Championship held in Pristina, after a thrilling match against Slovenia, which ended with a score of 3:2 (25:22, 15:25, 15:25, 29:27, 16:14). Despite falling short of a new victory, the younger Montenegrin players made a lasting impression throughout the tournament.

Slovenia remains the only team to have bested the first-place team from Group II – the Czech Republic, showcasing the caliber of their competition. Our volleyball team proudly finished the tournament with three noteworthy victories over Turkey, Croatia, and the host team, Kosovo.

Montenegro started strong against their familiar rivals, whom they faced in qualifiers, establishing an early lead of 6:2, followed by 12:6 through disciplined play. However, a lapse in concentration allowed the Slovenians to tie the game at 15:15. By the end of the set, Slovenia had taken control, clinching it with a score of 25:22.

In response, the Montenegrins showcased their strength in the second set, again jumping to a 6:2 advantage. The lead swelled to +12 (24:12) before they finished the set at 25:15, leveling the match at 1:1. Montenegro continued to assert dominance in the third set, leading 11:7 and then expanding it to 19:7. The set concluded with a score of 25:15, as Minja Mišević delivered two aces to secure the lead at 2:1.

The fourth set was filled with tension. Montenegro initially led 8:4, but Slovenia fought back to take the lead at 18:14. In a fierce finish, backed by Elena Jovanović’s excellent serving and the team’s relentless spirit, the Montenegrins equalized at 19:19 and briefly took the lead at 21:20. However, they were unable to capitalize on a match point at 25:24. Slovenia seized their third set point after an intense battle, extending the match to 29:27.

In the decisive fifth set, Montenegro led 5:3, and the score was tied at 10:10. In a nail-biting conclusion, Slovenia managed to clinch the set at 16:14. In addition to missed opportunities at the end, Petar Koković’s squad also reflects on the missed match against Hungary, also in five sets, which left our promising girls a step away from World Championship qualification.

Klara Đukić stood out as Montenegro’s most effective player, scoring 20 points, followed by Elena Jovanović with 18, and Mia Podjanin contributing 11. While the defeat stung, the young “reds” displayed remarkable character, fighting spirit, and talent, leaving a positive mark on the championship.

SLOVENIA – MONTENEGRO 3:2 (25:22, 15:25, 15:25, 29:27, 16:14)

Pristina – “Palace of Youth”. Audience: 45. Officials: Isak Flouris (Cyprus) and Kirich Stoyanov (Bulgaria).

Montenegro: Jovović, Mrdak 2, Podjanin 11, Duletić 4, Striković (libero), Ćorović 2, Đukić 20, Peković 7, Glušac, Zlajić (libero), Krasnić 9, Jovanović 18, Lekić, Mišević 7. Coach: Petar Koković.

Slovenia: Mikša 5, Šremov (libero), Sovič 9, Maravič 11, Makne, Natek, Dornih 31, Drožina 6, Škrejanc 14, Begić, Banovec 1, Mihelič, Albič (libero), Ris, Šteharnik 1. Coach: Dejan Pušnik.

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