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The Turkish Women’s National Volleyball Team came agonizingly close to glory in the 2025 FIVB Women’s World Championship final but fell 3-2 against Italy.
Despite fighting back from 1-0 down to level the match, Türkiye could not overcome Italy in the decisive fifth set and had to settle for the silver medal.
Italy claimed the opening set 25-23, but Türkiye responded emphatically in the second set with a commanding 25-13 victory. The third set was fiercely contested, eventually going 26-24 in favor of Italy.
Refusing to back down, Türkiye forced a fifth set after a 25-19 win in the fourth. However, Italy held firm in the decider, sealing the championship with a 15-8 scoreline.
Melissa Vargas delivered another outstanding performance for Türkiye, scoring a match-high 33 points. Captain Eda Erdem contributed 19, while Ebrar Karakurt and Zehra Gunes added 12 and 9 points respectively.
Italy relied on its superstar Paola Egonu, who tallied 22 points, supported by captain Sylla with 19 and Antropova with 14.
Türkiye finished with statistical superiority in several categories: 68 attack points against Italy’s 59, along with 10 blocks and 7 service points. Both teams capitalized on 20 opponent errors. Yet Italy’s 14 blocks in crucial moments proved decisive, tilting the balance of the final.
Having entered the World Championship for the sixth time since 2006, Türkiye reached the final for the first time in its history. Though the ultimate prize slipped away, the silver medal represents a milestone achievement and further solidifies the team’s place among the world’s volleyball elite.
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