Šotola and Leal Power Halkbank’s Run to the CLVolleyM Final Four

In the 2025 CEV Champions League, Turkish team Halkbank ANKARA continues to make a strong impression, thanks to two key players — Marek Šotola from the Czech Republic and Leal Hidalgo Yoandy, the Cuban-Brazilian outside hitter. These two stars are helping Halkbank fight for a place among Europe’s top volleyball clubs.

Marek Šotola has been Halkbank Ankara’s top scorer in the 2025 men's CEV Champions League volleyball. He has scored 206 points in 10 matches, which puts him third among all players in the competition.

One of his best games came during the group stage against Sir Sicoma Monini Perugia, where he scored 18 points in a 3–2 away win, Perugia’s only group-stage loss. He also scored 12 points in the earlier match between the two teams.

Šotola played through the playoffs and quarterfinals, where Halkbank had to win a golden set to move forward. Even though he had a minor injury earlier in the season, he returned just before the Final Four and is now back in action.

This season is one of his strongest in Europe, and his scoring has helped Halkbank reach the semi-finals for the third time in club history.

Leal Hidalgo Yoandy has been a reliable outside hitter for Halkbank Ankara throughout the season. He supports the team with powerful attacks, good defense, and smart decisions during games.

While Leal is not the team’s highest scorer, he made important contributions in several matches, especially in tight sets and long rallies. His experience helped the team stay calm during their two golden set wins in the playoffs and quarterfinals, which were needed for Halkbank to reach the Final Four.

In the group-stage matches against Perugia, Leal’s balanced play helped the team remain competitive and win one of the most difficult matches of the season. His presence on the court creates more space for teammates like Šotola to score.

Leal’s role this season has been about balance, leadership, and keeping the team stable in pressure moments. His performances continue to help Halkbank fight for a place in their second-ever Champions League final.

Šotola and Leal have led Halkbank to one of their best-ever performances in the Champions League, reaching the Final Four for the third time in club history. Their journey includes wins in several five-set matches and dramatic golden sets. Halkbank remains a serious title contender, with its attack led by Šotola’s power and supported by Leal’s all-around skill.

This season also marks a new chapter under returning coach Radostin Stoytchev, who previously led the club to the Champions League final in 2014. With players like Šotola and Leal in top form, Halkbank remains focused on the semi-finals as they aim to reach their second-ever Champions League final.

Together, Šotola and Leal have helped shape a confident and competitive Halkbank team. Their performances have placed the club firmly among Europe’s elite and set the stage for a possible historic finish in the 2025 CEV Champions League.