The Italian SuperLega Credem Banca has once again proven why it`s considered one of the most exciting and unpredictable volleyball leagues globally. The second leg of the 2025/26 season unfurled a tapestry of high-stakes drama, culminating in thrilling five-set battles and historic victories that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Perugia vs. Civitanova: A Five-Set Masterclass
The undisputed highlight of the weekend was the monumental clash between last season`s bronze medalists, Sir Susa Scai Perugia, and silver medalists, Cucine Lube Civitanova. Billed as the most anticipated fixture, it not only lived up to expectations but exceeded them, delivering a high-caliber five-set spectacle.
Perugia, enjoying their season home opener, clinched a hard-fought 3-2 victory (25-15, 22-25, 25-20, 23-25, 15-11). It was a testament to their resilience, especially in the decisive fifth set. Tunisian opposite Wassim Ben Tara was a force to be reckoned with, contributing a team-high 19 points, including two crucial blocks and an ace. His 62% attack success rate was a clear indicator of his offensive prowess. Argentinean middle blocker Agustin Loser and his teammate Roberto Russo also made significant contributions, showcasing their blocking skills with three kill blocks each and impressive attack percentages.
However, the Most Valuable Player (MVP) accolade deservedly went to Polish outside hitter Kamil Semeniuk. While his 13 points were notable, his intangible impact and composure during the nail-biting fifth set were what truly made the difference. On the Lube side, Bulgarian outside Aleksandar Nikolov was a lone titan, hammering out a match-high 21 points, including two aces and a block, a valiant effort that unfortunately wasn`t enough to secure the win.
Following this epic encounter, Sir Susa Scai Perugia now sits comfortably in third place with 5 points and an unblemished 2-0 record, while Cucine Lube Civitanova finds itself in sixth with 4 points and a 1-1 record. A testament to the fine margins at the top of Italian volleyball.
Rookies Rise and Piacenza`s Powerful Start
Beyond the headline clash, the SuperLega offered other compelling narratives. The league`s newcomers, MA Acqua San Bernardo Cuneo, etched their name into history books with their first-ever victory in Italy`s top division. Their convincing 3-0 (25-19, 25-18, 25-19) sweep over Cisterna Volley was a statement of intent, propelling them to fourth in the standings. French opposite Nathan Feral led the charge with 14 points, including two aces, and a commendable 60% attack success rate. Cisterna Volley, unfortunately, remains at the bottom, still searching for their first win.
Meanwhile, Gas Sales Bluenergy Piacenza also celebrated their inaugural win of the season, overcoming Allianz Milan 3-1 (28-26, 14-25, 25-17, 25-18). Opposite Alessandro Bovolenta was the architect of their success, racking up an impressive 28 points, just shading the valiant efforts of Milan`s Belgian opposite Ferre Reggers, who managed 27 points himself. Piacenza now holds seventh place, a point clear of Allianz.
Champions` Conviction and Verona`s Momentum
The defending champions, Itas Trentino Trento, continued their flawless start to the season, demonstrating why they wear the crown. They dispatched Sonepar Padova Padua with a clinical 3-0 (25-21, 25-21, 28-26) sweep at home, maintaining their perfect 2-0 record and topping the table with 6 points. Spanish outside Jordi Ramon was outstanding, contributing 19 points, including three aces and a block, alongside a remarkable 68% success rate in offense. Padova, despite their efforts, find themselves in ninth place.
Hot on Trentino`s heels are Rana Verona, who also secured their second consecutive three-point win, shutting out Yuasa Battery Grottazzolina 3-0 (25-21, 25-17, 25-20) on the road. Brazilian opposite Darlan Souza and Slovenian outside Rok Mozic were joint top scorers with 13 points each, showcasing a blend of powerful serves, strong blocks, and efficient attacks. Verona`s consistent performance positions them solidly in second place, while Grottazzolina languishes near the foot of the table.
Modena`s Dominance Completes the Round
Rounding off a weekend of intense competition, Valsa Group Modena delivered a straight-set victory over Vero Volley Monza, winning 3-0 (25-19, 25-17, 26-24). Austrian opposite Paul Buchegger was the star performer, recording a match-high 20 points, featuring three blocks, two aces, and an impressive 71% attack success rate. This decisive win places Modena in fifth place with 4 points. Vero Volley, in contrast, remains in 10th place, still seeking their first points.
Looking Ahead: The Midweek Mania
As the dust settles on the second leg, the Italian SuperLega wastes no time. The third leg is already on the horizon, promising more high-octane volleyball. Five matches are scheduled for Wednesday, October 29, with a final fixture on Thursday, October 30. Fans can anticipate more thrilling rallies, strategic masterclasses, and perhaps a few more five-set epics as teams vie for supremacy in this fiercely contested league.
The SuperLega continues to be a melting pot of international talent and tactical genius, where every point is fought with passion and precision. If the second leg is any indication, the rest of the season will be nothing short of spectacular.
