UGD Stip STIP and the city beneath Isar set for historic night

North Macedonia’s reigning national champions UGD Stip STIP will host their Dutch counterparts Orion Stars DOETINCHEM on Wednesday afternoon at 18:00 local time at the SRC Dzekson Sports Centre in Štip, in the second leg of the first round of the CEV XTB Champions League Volley 2027 Men.

The Dutch side enter the return leg as strong favourites after securing a convincing straight-sets victory in front of their home fans a week ago. “Orion Stars are a serious opponent with quality players and a substantial budget. The result of the first match was more or less expected. At the same time, I believe we could have put up a stronger fight, and I hope we will do so this time on home court. With better reception and blocking, I believe we can compete more effectively and show our opponents that we are ready to fight,” said home star Stojče Arsov.

However, this match means much more to UGD than ‘just’ the result. The club is making its debut in the elite CEV XTB Champions League this season, and for the first time ever, Štip will host a match of this level.

The SRC Dzekson Sports Centre was recently restored to its full glory and it will provide the stage for a CEV XTB Champions League Volley 2027 match in the heart of Štip.

“This is a historic night! It is the first match of this level to be played in Štip and at the SRC Dzekson Sports Centre, so why shouldn’t we spring a surprise? We need the support of our fans, who will be our seventh player on the court. On the other hand, I don’t know when they will have another opportunity to be part of a Champions League match. We enter the game rested and prepared, despite our demanding schedule due to our participation in the domestic league as well. With cool heads, I promise a better performance and plenty of fighting spirit. I invite everyone to join us for another spectacular evening of Volleyball delivered by our team,” said team captain and middle blocker Mihajlo Miraschiev.

Both the club and its players are determined to give their very best to mark this important milestone in the club’s history and in the sporting history of Štip. Admission to the SRC Dzekson Sports Centre in Štip is free for all fans and supporters of the club.