Zurich, Switzerland, October 12, 2013 – European champions Vakifbank Istanbul booked their ticket for Sunday’s gold medal match at 2013 FIVB Women’s Club World Champs by defeating Guangdong Evergrande in straight sets (28-26, 25-15, 25-20). It was a dramatic, high-class duel, especially in the first set.
Vakifbank Istanbul coach Giovanni Guidetti: “It was a tough match today with China playing much better than in their pool games. Nevertheless, my team found excellent solutions to counter the strong Chinese offense. My players kept calm in the crucial phases of the duel. We trusted in our strength.”
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| It is a special feeling to celebrate the 51th consecutive win, says Gözde. However, it is not over yet. Playing the gold medal match means playing for the top of the podium. |
Vakifbank Istanbul captain Gözde Kirdar Sonsirma: “I am proud of my team. We played on a very high level today. It is a special feeling to celebrate the 51th consecutive win. However, it is not over yet. Playing the gold medal match means playing for the top of the podium. We will give everything we have in Sunday’s match against the winner of Volero Zurich and Unilever Volei.”
Guangdong Evergrande coach Lang Ping: “We played really well today. As we had an injury, Megan Hodge had to play as opposite, a position she isn’t used to. I don’t think that losing the first set caused mental problems for my players. You can’t beat a strong team as Vakifbank Istanbul if you don’t have a completely healthy roster. I don’t put too many foreigners on the court for now as the setter doesn’t know them well. Nevertheless, my player worked really hard today.”
Guangdong Evergrande captain Ruoqi Hui: “This game was the best of our whole tournament. However, Vakifbank Istanbul was the better team even if we had good opportunities in all three sets. They played very well defensively and we struggled too much at the end of the first set. Vakifbank Istanbul have more experience than we have.”
from (fivb.org)
