The Yellow Tigers are gearing up for a crucial double match in their EuroVolley qualification campaign. After the first leg in the summer of 2024, they go into battle again this summer, with one ultimate goal: qualifying for EuroVolley 2026.

“We have a very clear goal,” says head coach Kris Vansnick. “The Yellow Tigers belong at a European Championship, so we absolutely want to secure that qualification. Playing a major tournament every summer is essential for this team’s development.”
After a 3-0 loss to Hungary and an equally clear win against Denmark last summer, the return matches are now on the schedule. The stakes are high: only the seven group winners and the five best runners-up qualify for the EuroVolley.

“Hungary is experienced and even played the final of the Golden European League this year. They have a top player in Nemeth and are well-coached by Chiappini. Denmark is physically strong, with players in top leagues, like Mogensen and Jorgensen,” Vansnick analyses.

A long summer – with results

The Yellow Tigers have had a busy schedule, including the Volleyball Nations League (VNL). Still, Vansnick sees mostly positives: “We’ve been active since May, with a short break of ten days. Of course, that has an impact, but we monitor everything closely and played the VNL with sixteen different players. Staying in the VNL was our first major objective – one we achieved with pride.”

A full squad with experience

For the EuroVolley qualification matches, Vansnick can rely on a complete squad. “We continue with the VNL selection. Captain Britt Herbots and Silke Van Avermaet return after their break, and Charlotte Krenicky is fit again after her wrist injury.”

Full selection:
Setters: Lara Nagels, Elise Van Sas, Charlotte Krenicky
Outside hitters: Britt Herbots, Nel Demeyer, Tea Radovic
Opposites: Pauline Martin, Liese Verhelst
Middle blockers: Nathalie Lemmens, Silke Van Avermaet, Anna Koulberg, Britt Fransen
Liberos: Noor Debouck, Britt Rampelberg

The crowd as seventh player

On Wednesday 6 August, the Yellow Tigers face Hungary in Maaseik – their first official international match in Limburg. “That makes it extra special for Nathalie Lemmens and Britt Herbots,” says Vansnick. “The Steengoed Arena is an iconic volleyball venue. We hope for packed stands, just like last year in Kortrijk. The home crowd really made the difference there.”

“This international is a key moment. With the support of our fans, we can earn that EuroVolley ticket!”

Belgium – Hungary
Wednesday 6 August – 20:15
Steengoed Arena, Maaseik
Tickets: Click here