KALAMATA, Greece, 17 October 2026 – The favourites, Kalamata 80 and Istanbul Genclik, opened their 2026 Balkan Clubs’ Cup campaigns with comfortable straight-set wins on Saturday in this seaside city in the southern Peloponnese. Both remain in the race for the one available slot in the 2026-27 CEV Challenge Cup.
Markou leads hosts past Metalurg Pernik
Hosts Kalamata 80 beat Bulgaria’s Metalurg Pernik 3-0 (25-16, 25-22, 25-14). Angelos Markou led the way with a match-high 15 points, scoring on 14 of his 22 attacks for 64% efficiency.
Metalurg Pernik played their best volleyball in the second set. They came from behind and put real pressure on the hosts, but Kalamata 80 held on to finish without dropping a set.
Kalamata 80 put the Bulgarian side under pressure from the service line, winning the ace count 8-2. They were also better in every skill, including reception (31% to 19%). That was enough to make up for the 23 points they gave away on unforced errors.
Istanbul Genclik sweep Luboteni in just over an hour
Earlier in the afternoon, Istanbul Genclik opened the tournament by beating Kosovo’s Luboteni Ferizaj 3-0 (25-13, 25-15, 25-17) in just over an hour.
Dutch-Italian outside hitter Dick Kooy led the Turkish side with 12 points, and teammate Yasin Aydin added 11. They were the only two players on either team to reach double figures.
Istanbul Genclik controlled the net, out-blocking Luboteni 12-2, and were far more efficient in attack (54%, 38/70, against 31%, 22/70).
Day 2 schedule
The four-team tournament continues in Kalamata on Sunday. Istanbul Genclik play Metalurg Pernik, and Kalamata 80 face Luboteni Ferizaj.
Results, Day 1 (17 October 2026):
- Istanbul Genclik (TUR) – Luboteni Ferizaj (KOS) 3-0 (25-13, 25-15, 25-17)
- Kalamata 80 (GRE) – Metalurg Pernik (BUL) 3-0 (25-16, 25-22, 25-14)
