Belgium’s TTC Sokah Hoboken delivered first upset in the opening leg of the ETTU Champions League Men Round of 16, defeating last season’s Final Four contenders KS Bank Spółdzielczy Orlicz 1924 Suchedniów with a 3–0 victory at home.
The Belgian side, seeded 19th this season, have already exceeded expectations by advancing from Stage 1, where they overcame Austria’s SPG Felbemayr Wels, Czechia’s SKST Havířov, and Croatia’s STK Starr. Their momentum carried into the knockout round, where they stunned the No. 6 seeds from Poland.
On paper, the visitors were considered strong favourites, but on the table, after a fierce fight the night belonged to Hoboken.
The 3-0 win The opening match set the tone as Rémi BETELU delivered a strong performance to defeat KOZUL 3–1, sealing the fourth game with 11–1. Benjamin BROSSIER then edged out AIDA in a dramatic full five-game battle, surviving a tight 11–13 fourth game before completing the job in the decider by death point.
With the Polish side under pressure, Quentin ROBINOT completed the upset. After losing the first two games to ZALEWSKI, the Frenchman mounted a remarkable comeback, saving key points to take the third game 14–12 and maintaining control through the fourth and fifth to secure the victory for Hoboken.
Hoboken Manager Marc GIJS: “Totally unexpected to win 3:0 against last year’s Final Four semi-finalist! A very good match with high quality from both sides. We’re looking forward to continuing this journey!”
TTC Sokah Hoboken – KS Bank Spółdzielczy Orlicz 1924 Suchedniów 3–0
- Rémi BETELU – Deni KOZUL 3–1 (11–8, 8–11, 11–9, 11–1)
- Benjamin BROSSIER – Satoshi AIDA 3–2 (11–7, 4–11, 11–4, 11–13, 6–5)
- Quentin ROBINOT – Mateusz ZALEWSKI 3–24–11, 8–11, 14–12, 11–7, 6–2)
