Montenegro Women 3–1 Georgia Women | 2026 European League Women

Montenegro Women secured a hard-fought 3–1 (25–19, 23–25, 25–17, 25–21) victory over Georgia Women in their opening 2026 European League Women match on 8 June 2026. Playing in front of an enthusiastic home crowd in Podgorica, the Montenegrin team leaned on veteran leadership and a powerful left side to overcome a determined Georgian side that pushed them to four sets. The win gives Montenegro an early lead in their pool.

Match Overview

The first set saw Montenegro establish an early rhythm behind the attacking of Jovana Vukčević, who punished from both the left and right sides. A 6–0 run midway through the set broke Georgia’s resistance, and a 25–19 win came comfortably. Georgia responded in the second set, improving their blocking and capitalising on a few Montenegrin service errors. Outside hitter Mariam Shavdatuashvili stepped up with five kills, and a late 25–23 win levelled the match. Montenegro regrouped in the third set, reasserting their physicality through middle blocker Tamara Đurović, whose quick attacks and two blocks helped build a 16–10 lead. The set closed 25–17. The fourth set was the most competitive, with six ties before Montenegro pulled away at 21–20 on a crucial kill from Milošević. Solid defence from libero Ivana Radović shut down Georgia’s final rally, and a 25–21 finish came on a Vukčević spike.

Key Performers

• Jovana Vukčević (Montenegro) – The opposite scored a match-high 22 points, including three aces and a 48% kill rate.
• Mariam Shavdatuashvili (Georgia) – Led Georgia with 15 points, showing composure in the second set rally.
• Tamara Đurović (Montenegro) – Contributed four blocks and nine points, providing a strong net presence.

Tactical Story

Montenegro’s attacking depth was the key difference. They spread the offence across three hitters while Georgia relied heavily on their outside pins. Montenegrin coach Milan Đukić used quick middle sets to open the sidelines, and his team’s blocking was more disciplined in the third and fourth sets. Georgia struggled with serve-receive consistency, posting a reception efficiency under 40% in the sets they lost. The visitors’ blocking improved in the second set but could not be sustained against Montenegro’s varied tempo.

Standings Context

The victory gives Montenegro three points and a strong start in the European League Women pool. Georgia, while competitive, fall to zero points. The tournament serves as a development platform for both nations, with the winner securing promotion opportunities in the European volleyball pyramid. Montenegro, with a blend of experienced internationals and young talent, will aim to top the group and advance to the knockout rounds.

What’s Next

Montenegro will travel to play Georgia in the return fixture later in June. For Georgia, shoring up their reception and maintaining block discipline will be key to reversing the result. Both teams have shown they can compete at this level, but Montenegro’s firepower in the clutch moments tilted this encounter in their favour.

Event: European League Women – Group Stage
Date: 8 June 2026
Venue: Sportski Centar Morača, Podgorica