A historic match for Turkish volleyball will be played in the CEV Men’s Champions League. Halkbank ANKARA captain Ulaş Kıyak commented on the occasion, stating, “This match makes Turkish volleyball’s position in Europe even more visible.”

Halkbank ANKARA and Galatasaray ISTANBUL will face each other for the first time in Europe’s most prestigious club competition. This matchup represents not only a contest between two clubs, but also a strong reflection of the sporting and institutional level Turkish volleyball has reached in recent years.

Ahead of this important encounter, Halkbank ANKARA’s experienced player and team captain, Ulaş Kıyak, shared his thoughts with the club’s media team.

Ulaş Kıyak: “This match makes Turkish volleyball’s position in Europe even more visible”

Speaking about the fact that two Turkish teams will face each other in the CEV Champions League for the first time in the history of Turkish men’s volleyball, Kıyak said:

“This is truly a very valuable moment. Seeing two teams from the same country competing at the highest level in Europe shows that the right steps are being taken in that country for volleyball. I see this not so much as a rivalry, but as a positive picture for Turkish volleyball. Both Halkbank and Galatasaray deserve to be at this level. This match makes Turkish volleyball’s place in Europe even more visible. It also presents an inspiring picture for young players, youth academies and clubs. Having two Turkish teams capable of competing in Europe will bring positive outcomes for everyone in the long term.”

“The tactical discipline you bring onto the court is decisive”

Commenting on the differences between the league match played against Galatasaray earlier in the season and the upcoming Champions League encounter, Kıyak noted:

“There are clear differences between league matches and European matches, both in terms of tempo and mentality. In the Champions League, every team competes at the highest possible level. I don’t think previous matches will have a direct impact on this one. At this level, the result is determined by the tactical discipline you bring onto the court and how correctly you play the game.”

“At this level, matches are decided by small details”

Touching on Halkbank ANKARA’s strengths in high-level matches, Kıyak added:

“Our team balance and the distribution of roles on the court are among our biggest advantages. Every player is aware of their responsibilities. Being able to stay calm in difficult moments and remain loyal to our game plan is crucial at this level. Sometimes a single block, sometimes the right serve decision, or a small defensive touch can change the outcome of a match.”