The MEVZA U16 Qualifiers have come to an exciting conclusion, with Czechia and Hungary earning the gold medals and securing direct qualification to the U16 European Championship Final Round.
Men’s Tournament
Czechia claimed the gold medal after an impressive performance in the final against Slovenia, winning in straight sets 3-0 (25-14, 25-12, 26-24). Their dominance throughout the match solidified their place as the top men’s team of the tournament.
The bronze medal match was a thrilling five-set battle, where Slovakia edged out Israel 3-2 (25-18, 24-26, 25-13, 13-25, 15-11).
In the placement matches:
- 5th Place: Austria defeated Croatia 3-0 (25-14, 25-23, 25-20).
- 7th Place: Cyprus overcame Hungary in a hard-fought 3-2 victory (15-25, 23-25, 25-19, 25-16, 17-15).
Women’s Tournament
Hungary emerged victorious in the women’s competition, narrowly defeating Croatia in a five-set thriller 3-2 (20-25, 25-21, 20-25, 25-18, 15-12) to take the gold medal and secure their spot in the European Championship.
The bronze medal went to Slovenia, who delivered a dominant 3-0 win over Czechia (25-16, 25-17, 25-14).
In the placement matches:
- 5th Place: Slovakia defeated Cyprus 3-0 (25-19, 25-16, 25-17).
- 7th Place: Austria bested Israel 3-0 (25-12, 25-14, 25-21).
Final Standings and What’s Next
With their victories, Czechia (men) and Hungary (women) have secured direct tickets to the U16 European Championship Final Round. The remaining teams will now look to the second round of qualifiers, where they’ll have another opportunity to earn their place in the European Championship.
