Israel’s men’s volleyball team achieved a historic double on Sunday night, clinching a second straight berth in the European League Final Four and officially qualifying for EuroVolley 2028. It is an unprecedented run for the team, which will appear in three consecutive continental tournaments after also competing in Israel in 2023. The qualification for the 2026 and 2028 events came via successful qualifying campaigns.
Needing a win against Kosovo to secure the place, Israel stumbled in the opening set but recovered to win 3-1, 24-26, 25-18, 25-21, 25-16. The victory was the team’s sixth in a row this season. Itamar Stein’s side turned the match around under pressure, with Shai Liberman producing a standout performance and leading the attack with 36 points. Eili Haver and Mark Rora added 11 points each.
Stein said, “We are in the Final Four, for the second time in a row,” and added that the team had secured the European Championship spot. He said the players were exhausted, but praised their ability to respond at the right moment, even under pressure and fatigue. He added that the team would rest and prepare for the Netherlands, hoping to create another surprise.
Selva Bachekala said Kosovo played well and made the match difficult, but Israel knew it had to win and was happy to complete the task. He said there is still “a lot of work” ahead and much room for improvement. Volleyball federation chair Rina Dor called it an emotional and historic night, praising the players, staff and system behind the team.
In the women’s competition, Israel ended its European League campaign with a 3-0 loss to strong Switzerland, 25-15, 25-21, 25-17. Despite the defeat, the team fought hard throughout, with Valeri Gmanovich scoring 13 points and Shiral Janach adding 11.
