Turkey's National Women's Volleyball Team is getting ready to face Belgium in their opening match of the second stage of the FIVB Volleyball Nations League, which will be held in Ankara. The team completed their final preparations at the Ankara Sports Hall ahead of the matches scheduled from June 17 to 21 in the capital.
Before the training session, head coach Daniele Santarelli said the team is at a different level compared to the end of the first stage. Emphasizing their goal to win every match, Santarelli acknowledged it would not be easy but said it could be possible with the advantage of playing at home.
The Italian coach recalled that the first match will be against Belgium and that his focus is currently solely on this game. Santarelli noted that every team has its strengths, and his team must first concentrate on their own style of play.
The head coach also mentioned that the atmosphere in Ankara will be important for the team. Expecting the stands to be full, Santarelli expressed that volleyball enjoys great popularity in Turkey and playing in Ankara with the national team holds special meaning for them.
National player Berka Buse Özden described the first stage played in Brazil as positive for the team. She said experienced players joined the squad in the second stage, making the team stronger.
Özden stated their goal is to win all four matches and that they will give their best to achieve this. She highlighted their high energy and invited fans to the arena, reminding that they will face strong opponents.
The young player recalled the atmosphere created in Istanbul last year and said she expects similar support in Ankara. After facing Belgium, the national team will continue their journey in the group by competing against strong rivals in the Ankara stage.