In a thrilling five-set encounter at the European League Women, Sweden Women edged out Hungary Women 3-2 (25-23, 23-25, 25-20, 22-25, 15-12) on 28 June 2026. The match, played in front of an enthusiastic home crowd in Budapest, showcased high-level volleyball with both teams trading momentum throughout the evening.

Match overview

The contest lived up to its billing as a clash of two evenly matched sides. Hungary started strong, using their powerful middle-blockers to claim a narrow first set. Sweden responded with tactical adjustments, particularly in their serving and transition game, to level the match. The third set saw Sweden take control behind strong performances from opposite hitter Elin Nilsson, while Hungary fought back in the fourth to force a decisive fifth set. In the end, Sweden’s composure under pressure proved decisive, as they pulled away in the tie-break with a 5-1 run to secure the victory.

Key moments

• First set: Hungary took an early 8-5 lead behind the serving of setter Dóra Horváth. Sweden clawed back to 23-23, but two consecutive spikes from outside hitter Gréta Szakmáry sealed the set for the hosts.
• Second set: Sweden’s blocking unit, led by middle blocker Isabelle Haak, stepped up. A crucial triple block at 22-22 turned the set in Sweden’s favor.
• Fourth set: Hungary refused to go quietly. Libero Anna Kovács made several key digs to spark a 6-1 run, forcing the decider.
• Fifth set: With the score tied at 12-12, Sweden’s captain Moa Gustafsson hammered a kill and followed it with a service ace to put her team on match point. A Hungary attack error sealed the win.

Standout performers

Sweden: Opposite hitter Elin Nilsson was the match’s top scorer with 24 points, including 19 kills, 3 blocks, and 2 aces. Middle blocker Isabelle Haak added 5 blocks and was instrumental in neutralizing Hungary’s quick attacks.

Hungary: Outside hitter Gréta Szakmáry led her team with 21 points, combining powerful cross-court hits with clever tips. Libero Anna Kovács recorded 18 digs and was a defensive anchor throughout the four-set loss.

Table impact

The victory moves Sweden Women to 2-1 in the European League group stage, keeping them in contention for a top-two finish that guarantees a spot in the final four. Hungary drops to 1-2 and will need to bounce back in their next match against Slovakia to stay in the race. The competitive nature of this encounter underscores the rising standard of women’s volleyball in Europe, with both nations developing young talent capable of challenging traditional powerhouses.