Bangkok, August 23, 2025 – Turkey’s national women’s volleyball team, famously known as the Sultans of the Net, has written a new chapter in the country’s sporting history by advancing to the World Women’s Volleyball Championship Final for the first time ever.
In a thrilling semifinal clash held at Bangkok’s Huamark Indoor Stadium, Turkey defeated Japan 3-1, securing a golden ticket to the final match where they will face Italy, who overcame Brazil in a dramatic five-set battle. The highly anticipated final is scheduled for 15:30 local time today.
A Historic Victory Over Japan
The semifinal encounter against Japan was filled with intensity and emotion. Japan struck first, taking the opening set 25-16. However, Turkey quickly found its rhythm, powered by the unstoppable performance of Melissa Vargas and the leadership of captain Eda Erdem Dündar.
Turkey claimed the second and third sets 25-17 and 25-18 respectively, before sealing the victory in a nail-biting fourth set, edging Japan 27-25. The triumph marked Turkey’s first-ever advancement to a World Championship final – a milestone that fans and players alike will remember for years to come.
Interestingly, Japan was coached by Turkish head coach Ferhat Akbaş, adding extra drama to the clash. Japan had previously beaten Turkey in both the 2006 and 2010 World Championships, but this time, the Sultans of the Net turned history in their favor.
Road to the Final
Turkey’s road to the final has been nothing short of impressive. They breezed through the group stage, defeating Spain, Bulgaria, and Canada with straight-set victories. In the Round of 16, they crushed Slovenia 3-0.
The real test came in the quarterfinals when Turkey faced the United States, the reigning Olympic champions. Displaying resilience and determination, Turkey triumphed 3-1. With back-to-back 3-1 wins against both the USA and Japan, the team has proven its ability to handle high-pressure situations.
Santarelli’s Leadership: “Maybe Not Perfect, But We Are Turkey”
Head coach Daniele Santarelli, who previously guided Serbia to gold at a World Championship, has already become a beloved figure in Turkey. Under his leadership, Turkey has captured titles in the European Championship and the Nations League, but the World Championship final is the ultimate stage.
After the semifinal win, Santarelli expressed his pride:
“Today is an unbelievable day. We showed that even in difficult moments, we could stay calm and trust each other. Maybe we are not perfect, but we are Turkey. These players give their heart and soul, and I hope the Turkish people celebrate this historic achievement.”
Eda Erdem: “We Came Here for the Final”
Team captain Eda Erdem Dündar, the emotional leader of the squad, described the journey as one built on belief and persistence:
“Step by step, we came here with the goal of reaching the final. We fought with honor and pride. Even when we were behind, we never gave up. This team continues to make history, and I couldn’t be prouder. Now, we are ready to give everything against Italy.”
Italy Awaits in the Final
Italy, led by star players Paola Egonu and Miriam Sylla, reached the final after a hard-fought 3-2 win against Brazil. The showdown between Turkey and Italy is expected to be one of the most thrilling matches in recent volleyball history, as both teams boast world-class talent and passionate fan bases.
For Turkey, this is more than just a volleyball match – it is a chance to bring home their first-ever World Championship gold medal and further solidify their reputation as one of the rising powers of women’s volleyball.
