VakifBank Took the Lead Against Fenerbahce Medicana in Sultans League Final Thriller

VakifBank Took the Lead Against Fenerbahce Medicana: 1-0 Up in Sultans League Showdown

The first act of the highly anticipated Vodafone Sultans League play-off final lived up to its billing as VakifBank struck the opening blow in front of a buzzing home crowd. With a 3-1 victory over fierce rivals Fenerbahce Medicana, the reigning powerhouse of Turkish women’s volleyball have taken a 1-0 lead in the best-of-five final series.

Played at the always atmospheric VakifBank Sports Palace, the clash delivered everything fans of the sport could have hoped for—drama, momentum swings, top-tier rallies, and individual brilliance from both sides. But when it mattered most, it was VakifBank who found the answers, controlling the crucial points and walking away with the early advantage in the race to three wins.

A Battle of Giants on the Big Stage

This isn’t just a final. It’s a clash of two of the most dominant forces in Turkish—and European—volleyball. Fenerbahce Medicana came into the match riding high from a tough semi-final victory over Galatasaray Daikin, a series they won 2-1 after some fiercely contested sets. VakifBank, on the other hand, had looked sharp and clinical in their own semi-final, brushing aside Eczacibasi Dynavit with a 2-0 sweep.

So when the two titans finally met for this championship series, there was more than silverware on the line—there was pride, rivalry, and a statement to be made.

And it was VakifBank who made theirs loud and clear.

Set by Set: VakifBank Stay One Step Ahead

VakifBank claims victory in derby Fenerbahce

From the opening whistle, VakifBank set the tone. Their aggressive serving, solid defensive positioning, and quick transitions made it hard for Fenerbahce to settle into rhythm.

The first set was tight but controlled. Both teams traded points early, but VakifBank’s blocking unit stepped up at crucial moments. With a final surge, they edged the set 25-22.

The second followed a similar script. VakifBank built up early pressure, and even though Fenerbahce tried to rally through clever attacks and strong middle play, the home side’s cohesion won out once again—another 25-22 set win, and suddenly it was 2-0.

But Fenerbahce, to their credit, refused to fold. They came out with renewed energy in the third, pushing VakifBank back with more aggressive swings and some standout defensive efforts. This time, they flipped the script and took the set 25-21, reigniting hope among their travelling supporters.

Yet just as it looked like momentum might shift, VakifBank reasserted themselves. With their big hitters finding the angles and their setter orchestrating the attack with poise, they held their nerve and closed out the fourth set—and the match—25-22.

Final Score: VakifBank 3-1 Fenerbahce Medicana
Set Scores: 25-22, 25-22, 21-25, 25-22

Teamwork, Stars, and Strategy

While VakifBank’s individual talent is undeniable, this win was a testament to their structure and trust in each other. Their blocking in particular was a standout—timing, positioning, and discipline all worked in sync to frustrate Fenerbahce’s front line.

Their setter’s decision-making kept the Fenerbahce defence guessing, spreading the ball across the court and giving all hitters their share of looks. And when the game got tight, VakifBank’s serve received held strong, allowing them to stay in-system and execute under pressure.

Fenerbahce, meanwhile, will walk away knowing they weren’t far off. The third set showed what they’re capable of when they’re firing on all cylinders, and if they can find that level earlier in the second match, this series could swing quickly.

The Road Ahead: All to Play For

With this 1-0 lead, VakifBank now have the upper hand in the final series. But in a best-of-five format, nothing is guaranteed. One game can change everything. Fenerbahce will regroup, rewatch, and reload—likely with adjustments in serve pressure and transition attack.

The Sultans League final is far from over, and if this first match is anything to go by, we’re in for a classic.

The next encounter is already generating massive anticipation. Will VakifBank extend their lead and tighten their grip on the trophy? Or will Fenerbahce strike back and level the series?

Either way, fans can expect more drama, more heart, and more of the best volleyball Turkey has to offer.