The 2026/27 volleyball season begins in Turkey with stellar performances from top contenders and dramatic comebacks.
The SMS Grup Efeler Ligi 2026/27 season opened in Turkey with dominant victories for powerhouse clubs, setting a high competitive standard right from the first week of fixtures.
Contenders such as Ziraat Bankkart and Halkbank delivered statement performances, while dramatic five-set encounters thrilled fans across multiple venues in the country.
The opening round provided immediate excitement and early league table shifts, according to information published by volley.
Ziraat Bankkart Sweeps Fenerbahçe Medicana in Istanbul
One of the opening round’s biggest results came in Istanbul, where Ziraat Bankkart swept Fenerbahçe Medicana 3-0 at the Burhan Felek Vestel Volleyball Hall.
The Ankara side secured a 25-22, 25-21, 25-22 victory, powered by standout contributions from Yuki Ishikawa with 16 points, Erhan Hamarat with 11 points, and Trévor Clévenot with 10 points.
Despite strong resistance from Fenerbahçe, the visiting squad maintained control during the decisive stages of every set to claim a clean sweep.
Halkbank Overcomes Galatasaray Behind Darlan Ferreira
In Ankara, Halkbank recovered from a set down to defeat Galatasaray Madeş Mobilya 3-1, with set scores finishing 23-25, 25-20, 27-25, and 25-23.
Brazilian opposite Darlan Ferreira delivered an outstanding performance, scoring a match-high 31 points to lead coach Radostin Stoytchev to his first victory of the campaign.
The victory highlights the offensive depth of the Ankara team as they navigate the demanding early schedule of the domestic volleyball calendar.
Altekma Produces Remarkable Comeback Against Spor Toto
The round featured a stunning turnaround when Altekma overturned a two-set deficit against Spor Toto, ultimately securing a 3-2 victory in İzmir.
After dropping the opening sets 27-29 and 21-25, the home side responded emphatically by dominating the third set 25-9 before taking the fourth 27-25 and the tie-break 15-13.
In other matches, İBB Spor Kulübü defeated Sungurlu Belediyesi 3-1, and Gebze Belediyesi beat Akedaş Onikişubat Belediyesi by the same scoreline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the match between Fenerbahçe Medicana and Ziraat Bankkart?
Ziraat Bankkart defeated Fenerbahçe Medicana 3-0 at the Burhan Felek Vestel Volleyball Hall during the opening round of the SMS Grup Efeler Ligi.
How many points did Darlan Ferreira score for Halkbank?
Darlan Ferreira delivered a match-high 31 points to help Halkbank defeat Galatasaray Madeş Mobilya 3-1 in Ankara.
Which team completed a five-set comeback in the opening round?
Altekma produced a remarkable five-set comeback against Spor Toto, winning 3-2 after losing the first two sets in İzmir.
