A power couple for Milano's path in Europe: Paola Egonu and Nika Daalderop
Editorial
Vero Volley Milano’s journey this season has been shaped by the steady hands of Nika Daalderop and the powerful presence of Paola Egonu. Together, they’ve carried the team through tough matches, each step bringing them closer to their first major European title.
Paola Egonu: Dominant Force in Attack
Paola Egonu has been central to Vero Volley Milano’s impressive Champions League campaign. With 215 points in 11 matches, she’s among the tournament’s top performers again. But her influence goes far beyond numbers. After a straight-set loss to VakifBank in the group stage, Egonu led a strong response in the return leg with a 3–1 win that lifted the team’s confidence and turned their season around.
Milano went on to dominate the knockout rounds, winning every set, with Egonu consistently stepping up in the key moments. She brings not just skill, but calm leadership when it’s needed most.
A three-time Champions League winner with Novara, Conegliano, and VakifBank, Egonu is no stranger to success. But this season feels different. With Milano, it’s not just about adding another title, it’s about building something new and leading a team into new territory.
Nika Daalderop: Reliable Through Every Stage
Nika Daalderop has been a steady presence for Vero Volley Milano throughout the 2025 Champions League. In the group stage, she played a key role in Milano’s recovery after their loss to VakifBank. In the return leg, her clean hitting and calm decision-making helped the team claim a crucial 3–1 win that secured second place in the group.
In the quarterfinals, Daalderop remained consistent as Milano defeated Eczacıbaşı Dynavit with back-to-back 3–0 wins. She supported the attack with smart hitting and strong coverage, helping the team stay in control across both matches.
Having scored 94 points so far (79 spikes, 10 blocks, and 5 aces), her contribution goes beyond numbers. Despite her quiet consistency, she continues to be an asset to the team.
A Duo That Makes Milano Believe
Paola Egonu and Nika Daalderop have given Vero Volley Milano power and balance. Egonu leads with her unstoppable scoring, while Daalderop brings calm and consistency. One lifts the team in the big moments, the other keeps it steady through every set. Their partnership has been key to Milano’s strong run this season, and as the semifinals approach, it’s clear that when these two are in sync, Milano can take on anyone.