The Orange Dragons continue in the Champions League
For the current national and cup champions, ACH Volley Ljubljana, the elite Champions League continues with a midweek match against the French champions Tours VB. The Orange Dragons, competing in Group B, alongside the French rivals, also have the current leaders, Italian Trentino Itas, and Polish Asseco Resovia. In the opening match, the French surprised the latter, securing a 3:1 victory at home.
In the domestic league, Ljubljana's team has achieved eleven wins and one loss so far this season. They have almost completely recovered from the injuries that affected them at the beginning of the season. On the other hand, Tours' volleyball players in the French league have five wins and six losses in eleven matches, currently placing them in eighth place in the league standings.
The matches against the French champions are seen as the best opportunity for ACH Volley Ljubljana to secure a victory in the highly competitive Champions League Group B. After a series of good performances in the domestic league, the Dragons, fueled by the fans, will openly pursue their first win in Group B, which is crucial for a potential European spring.
Statement from coach Radovan Gačič before the Champions League match: "In a full Tivoli, we expect the French champions, who have already proven this year that they are an exceptionally quality team, especially with a victory in a tough away match in Poland. I am confident that with the right approach and energy, we can achieve our first victory in this year's Champions League on Wednesday. We'll have to put pressure with our serves and be solid in block-defense. I hope for a positive result."
Statement from ACH Volley Ljubljana player Alen Šket: "A new Champions League match on home soil in the Tivoli Hall, where we expect excellent atmosphere and a true volleyball spectacle. To succeed against the French team, we will have to play our best game. I believe we are in good form, and it's time for our first victory in this year's Champions League."