The Sultans of the Net describe their European championship: We showed what Turkish women can achieve on the path opened by the Republic

The A National Women's Volleyball Team defeated Italy 3-2 in the 2026 CEV European Championship final, becoming European champions for the second time in a row. Following the final played in Istanbul, the national team players experienced great joy.

Speaking to TRT after the match, captain Eda Erdem Dündar dedicated the championship to the Turkish people. Dündar stated that she was proud of her teammates and drew attention to the support from the stands.

Captain Erdem said, "Honestly, what can I say! I am incredibly proud of this team. The audience was wonderful, the support was wonderful. If it weren't for their pressure, we couldn't have brought it to 3-2. I want to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart. They tried to give us their best, and we tried to put our best on the court. To be champions again, 3 years later, is an incredible feeling! On the path the Republic opened for us, we showed what Turkish women can achieve. Turkish women will continue to dream, to fight, and to win. This trophy belongs to all of us! Today, the capital of Europe is Istanbul! Thank you to everyone".

Derya Cebecioğlu, who stood out in the final especially with her performance in defense, also thanked her teammates. Cebecioğlu said that being European champions in front of the audience in Istanbul was a great source of happiness for them.

"I am truly proud of all my teammates. We became European champions in Istanbul in front of our audience. I am very happy, I love my teammates very much, I am proud."

The national player stated that they did not need extra motivation in matches like the European Championship final, adding, “I am very happy and proud. I am proud of myself. I love my teammates very much.”

News Source: 12punto