The second leg of the 2025-2026 Lega Volley Femminile Serie A1 Tigotà is upon us, and with it comes a tantalizing fixture that promises to set the tone for the season. Two formidable forces, Reale Mutua Fenera Chieri ’76 and Numia Vero Volley Milano, both gleaming with perfect records from Opening Day, are poised to collide this Sunday. This isn`t just another match; it`s an early-season litmus test, a statement game between two teams vying for immediate dominance in Italy`s premier women`s volleyball league.
The Unbeaten Duo Takes Center Stage
Only four teams managed to secure all three points on the opening day of this fiercely competitive league. Intriguingly, two of them — Chieri and Milano — find themselves on a collision course this weekend. Their duel, scheduled for Sunday at 18:00 local time (16:00 GMT), will be the highlight of the weekend`s seven matches, drawing eyes from across the volleyball world.
Chieri`s Road to Glory (So Far)
Chieri had a promising start to their campaign, going on the road to take down Il Bisonte Firenze in a compelling four-set victory. Their performance was spearheaded by the exceptional Stella Nervini, who, showcasing her World Champion pedigree, dazzled with 17 points. Not far behind, middle blocker Anna Gray contributed a significant 16 points, demonstrating a well-rounded offensive attack that hints at a team both talented and strategically astute.
Milano`s Dominant Home Stand
Across the court, Milano enjoyed a similarly emphatic start, sweeping Bergamo in front of their fervent home crowd. Leading the charge, as she so often does, was the superstar opposite Paola Egonu. Elevated to team captain this season, Egonu wasted no time in asserting her authority, blasting 25 points – a true captain`s performance that underscores her pivotal role. Milano`s clean sweep suggests a well-oiled machine, capable of overpowering rivals with sheer force and precision, particularly with Egonu firing on all cylinders.
A Glimpse into History: Milano`s Enduring Edge
While both teams enter this clash with unblemished records, history tends to lean heavily in Milano’s favor. Of their 22 encounters in the Lega Femminile to date, Milano has emerged victorious in a commanding 18. Chieri’s last taste of victory against Milano dates back to the 2020/2021 season, a rather distant memory for their fans, which also saw them triumph in the Coppa Italia. One might suggest that Milano has, over the years, developed a rather effective, if not entirely courteous, method of dealing with their Turin-based counterparts. The question now is whether Chieri can rewrite this narrative, or if Milano will simply add another chapter to their dominant saga.
Wider League Landscape: Action Across Italy
Beyond this marquee matchup, the Lega Femminile A1 Tigotà continues to deliver thrills. The weekend kicks off on Saturday with Savino Del Bene Scandicci hosting Bartoccini-Mc Restauri Perugia, both having gathered points in their initial outings.
Sunday will also see defending champions Conegliano make their much-anticipated home debut against Honda Cuneo Granda Volley. Conegliano, known for their resilience, had a nail-biting start to the season, clawing back from a two-set deficit to win their opener in a tie-breaker – a testament to the league’s intense competition. Meanwhile, four other matches will start simultaneously at 17:00 (15:00 GMT), featuring teams like CBF Balducci HR Macerata, Wash4Green Monviso Volley, Megabox Ondulati Savio Vallefoglia, Firenze, Igor Gorgonzola Novara, Busto Arsizio, Bergamo, and Omag-Mt San Giovanni In Marignano, all vying for crucial early-season points.
Conclusion: The Stage is Set
As Sunday approaches, all eyes will undoubtedly be on the court where Chieri and Milano will test their early-season mettle. This fixture is more than just a battle for points; it`s a statement about aspirations, a clash of titans where only one undefeated streak can continue. For fans, it’s an unmissable spectacle, offering a glimpse into who might emerge as the season’s frontrunners. The stage is set for a memorable encounter in the heart of Italian women`s volleyball, promising an electrifying display of skill, strategy, and sheer determination.
