13 set points for Developres RZESZOW to finally break down Allianz MTV STUTTGART

Allianz MTV STUTTGART (GER) vs Developres RZESZOW (POL) 1-3 (21-25, 25-22, 43-45, 20-25)

Both teams had finished second in their respective groups, and history suggested a tight battle—each of their previous encounters had gone the distance, with the home team always emerging victorious.

The match began evenly, with neither side able to establish clear dominance. However, a strong serving run from Marrit Jasper gave the Polish side a crucial six-point lead. Stuttgart refused to back down, fighting for every ball, and at one point, they cut Rzeszów’s advantage to just two points. Yet, Developres held their nerve, closing out the first set 21-25.

Determined to respond, Stuttgart came out firing in the second set, putting Developres under immediate pressure. The Polish team struggled to find their rhythm, allowing their opponents to take an early lead. Coach Stéphane Antiga had to call a timeout to regroup his squad. The visitors mounted a late comeback, closing the gap to 15-9, but it wasn’t enough—Stuttgart held firm to take the set 25-22.

The third set will be remembered as one of the most extraordinary in Champions League history. Both teams battled point for point, with Stuttgart at one stage leading 15-11. However, a stunning five-point run saw Developres take the lead at 15-16, setting up a breathtaking finale. What followed was an epic exchange where neither team could convert their set points—Stuttgart had eight, while Developres needed thirteen to finally seal it at an astonishing 43-45 after 55 minutes of pure volleyball drama.

After such an emotionally draining set, the fourth set was expected to be another intense battle. The teams were level at 16-16 before Developres found another gear. They surged ahead 18-23, leaving Stuttgart with no way back. The match concluded in spectacular fashion as Sabrina Machado delivered a service ace to secure victory for Rzeszów. The Brazilian star finished the game as MVP, leading her team with 33 points.

The second-leg showdown in Rzeszów is set for February 20, where Stuttgart will need a massive performance to stay alive in the competition.

Match Facts:

- 1,769 fans packed SCHARRena for the playoff opener
- Both teams relied on their powerhouse opposites—Rivers scored 32 points, while MVP Machado racked up 33
- Marrit Jasper, sister of former Stuttgart champion Hester Jasper, contributed 19 points for Developres
- The crowd witnessed one of the most thrilling sets of the entire tournament, with Rzeszów winning 43-45 in the third set