SF SKK El Nino Praha secured a valuable 3-1 away victory over Roskilde Bordtennis BTK 61 in the opening leg of the ETTU Europe Cup Men semi-final, placing themselves in a strong position ahead of the return match on Sunday. The tie opened with a tight battle, as Tomas KONECNY edged past Jens LUNDQVIST in five games, setting the tone for a match expected to be decided by fine margins. David REITSPIES then extended the lead with a composed straight-games win over Anders ERIKSSON, underlining the Czech side’s experience and control. Roskilde responded through Tobias RASMUSSEN, who fought back from two games down to defeat Yevhen PRYSHCHEPA in a dramatic decider, keeping the hosts in contention. However, REITSPIES proved decisive once again, overcoming LUNDQVIST in four games to seal the overall victory for El Nino Praha. “The opening singles match was definitely key. Tomáš KONEČNÝ, who often plays five-set matches against Jens LUNDQVIST, was behind early on, but then the momentum shifted and from that moment we were in control. David REITSPIES was a real anchor for us, and I believe Yevhen PRYSHCHEPA also delivered a strong performance, even though he lost in the shortened deciding set – that can happen. Overall, we were the better team and achieved the result we wanted ahead of the return leg. I hope that on Sunday we can reward our fans, show a strong performance, and secure our place in the final,” said coach Petr KAUCKÝ. As anticipated in the build-up, this semi-final delivered a close and competitive contest, but the Czech side’s consistency and experience made the difference. With the second leg set to be played in Prague, El Nino Praha now hold the advantage as they look to convert it into a place in the final. Roskilde Bordtennis BTK 61 – SF SKK El Nino Praha 1-3
Real Club Cajasur Priego TM take firm control in Lille
Real Club Cajasur Priego TM took a decisive step towards the final of the ETTU Europe Cup with a commanding 3-0 victory over Lille Metropole TT in the opening leg of the semi-final. Despite expectations of a close encounter, the Spanish side showed composure and experience from the outset. Hampus SODERLUND set the tone with a solid win over Romain BRARD, before Robert GARDOS, fully focused on European competition as highlighted ahead of the tie, delivered a convincing straight-games victory to extend the lead. The third match proved to be the closest of the evening, with Tom CLOSSET pushing Carlos MACHADO to five games. However, the experienced Spanish player held his nerve in the decider to complete a clean sweep for the visitors. “We had a great start with Hampus. He was leading 2-0 and 8-2 before losing that game, but he recovered well, and that was very important for us. We knew that Romain BRARD is very dangerous and capable of winning two points. After that, I was able to control my game and secure the win. Carlos had to finish it, and he played calmly with great experience. At 2-2, he also had a bit of luck on his side. Now we are one step closer to the final,” said Robert GARDOS. MACHADO added: “We are very happy with the team’s performance today. At the same time, we need to stay grounded and quickly refocus on the second leg in Priego in a couple of days.” With a 3-0 advantage secured away from home, Real Club Cajasur Priego TM now head back to Spain in a strong position, where they will look to confirm their place in the final in Sunday’s second leg. Lille Metropole TT – Real Club Cajasur Priego TM 0-3
ASD Quattro Mori Cagliari edge SKST Plus Hodonin in dramatic opener
ASD Quattro Mori Cagliari secured a narrow 3-2 victory over SKST Plus Hodonin in a dramatic opening leg of the ETTU Europe Cup Women semi-final, with the outcome decided in a tense death point. The hosts made a strong start, as Karin GROFOVA defeated Tania PLAIAN to give Hodonin the early lead. However, Cagliari responded through Elizabet ABRAAMIAN and MA Hengyu, turning the tie around with two composed performances to move 2-1 ahead. GROFOVA once again delivered for the Czech side, overcoming ABRAAMIAN to level the match at 2-2 and set up a decisive final encounter. In a thrilling conclusion, Tania PLAIAN held her nerve against Ting Yao LIAO, sealing the victory in a dramatic decider that went down to the final point. “First of all, we are very happy with the win. Once again, our team spirit helped us a lot – and today more than ever. It was a real roller-coaster match. GROFOVA played at an unbelievable level, almost a perfect match, and it was extremely difficult against her. Both Elizabet and I struggled with her style, as she hardly made any mistakes. We tried to adjust our tactics, but it didn’t really work. In the second match, ABRAAMIAN didn’t start well against LIAO, but she gradually found her rhythm, adapted her tactics, and managed to turn the match around. The third match, MA Hengyu against SEVCIKOVA, was also very tough. At first, MA was a bit uncomfortable against the defensive style, but we supported her on every point, and she grew into the match. In my match against LIAO, I went 2-0 up quite comfortably, but then she started to play better and better. I was a bit concerned as I couldn’t find the right solution, but in the end I followed my coach’s advice. From 5-3, I regained confidence and managed to close the match,” said Tania PLAIAN. As highlighted ahead of the tie, Cagliari’s strength in unity and fighting spirit once again proved decisive, while Hodonin showed resilience reminiscent of their quarter-final run. With a slender advantage secured away from home, the Italian side now take a crucial step towards the final ahead of the return leg. SKST Plus Hodonin – ASD Quattro Mori Cagliari 2-3
LINZ AG Froschberg edge opening leg in Spain
LINZ AG Froschberg claimed a valuable 3-2 away victory over MIRÓ Ganxets Costa Durada in the opening leg of the ETTU Europe Cup semi-final, putting themselves in a strong position ahead of the return match scheduled for Saturday 25th April. The Spanish side struck first, with Guo RUICHEN delivering a composed 3-0 win against Britt EERLAND. However, Suthasini SAWETTABUT quickly restored parity, overcoming Olga VOROBEVA in four games to level the tie. A crucial turning point came in the third match, where Ivana MALOBABIC edged past Anastasia KOLISH in a hard-fought five-game encounter, giving Linz a 2-1 lead. Guo RUICHEN responded once again for the hosts, narrowly defeating SAWETTABUT in another decider to bring the teams level at 2-2. In the decisive fifth match, Britt EERLAND held her nerve to secure a 3-1 victory over VOROBEVA, sealing an important away win for the Austrian side. “Yes, I think it was important that we didn’t rush. We knew we were playing well and had a good feeling in the hall. But none of the wins came easy, in a semi-final, nothing is given. In the end, it was a hard-fought and well-deserved victory, and we will aim to bring the same level and spirit on Saturday,” said EERLAND. With a narrow advantage secured on Spanish soil, Linz AG Froschberg will look to finish the job on home ground in the second leg. MIRÓ Ganxets Costa Durada – Linz AG Froschberg 2-3
MIRÓ Ganxets Costa Daurada set for historic semi-final challenge against Linz AG Froschberg
MIRÓ Ganxets Costa Daurada are stepping into uncharted territory as they prepare for the Europe Cup Women semi-finals a historic moment for the Spanish club and a challenge they are ready to embrace. They will meet Linz AG Froschberg. Their path to the last four was anything but easy, but it was convincing. After a strong 3-0 win away in Zagreb, they confirmed their place in the semi-finals with a 3-2 victory at home against STK Dr. Časl. Even though only two points were needed in the second leg, the team stayed competitive until the very end, showing both quality and character. “It was fantastic,” said the club President Joan Carles VIRGILI when reflecting on the quarter-final. “The tie was decided on their field, and the return at home was more of a formality.” “It was a very important win for us,” Andrea TODOROVIC reflected. “ČASL is a strong team with experienced players, so it meant a lot that we managed to control the match and not let it become more complicated. It was a great way to enter the semi-finals.” Players like Olga VOROBEVA, Guo RUICHEN and Andrea TODOROVIC have all played key roles throughout the campaign. “It is true that Andrea was very important in both matches in the last round,” President VIRGILI explained. “But overall, all the players who took part in the Champions League and Europe Cup contributed. In the last round, all three fulfilled their roles very well.” Preparation, however, comes with its own challenges. MIRÓ Ganxets Costa Daurada do not train together on a daily basis. With players spread across different countries and competing in various leagues, they only come together for matches. “It’s not easy to really judge our form,” TODOROVIC explained. “We are all playing in different leagues and constantly travelling. But when we come together, we give everything and that’s what matters.” That shared commitment has been enough to carry them this far and it will be crucial again in the next round. Waiting for them in the semi-finals is Linz AG Froschberg a team with a strong reputation and a long history of success in both the Austrian league and European competitions. With players like Britt EERLAND, Suthasini SAWETTABUT, Ivana MALOBABIC, and Andrea PAVLOVIC, Linz bring depth, experience, and a variety of playing styles. “We definitely expect a different kind of challenge now,” TODOROVIC said. “This is the semi-final, and Linz is a very strong team. They have a lot of experience at the international level, so we know it won’t be easy.” But for MIRÓ Ganxets Costa Daurada, there is also a sense of freedom. “Reaching the semi-finals is already a historic result for our club. We go into this match motivated, but without pressure ready to give our best and see what happens.” Against a team like Linz, preparation will be key especially with such a mix of playing styles on the other side of the table. “They have everything, defensive players, offensive players, different styles. So we need to be ready for all of that,” she explained. “But in the end, the most important thing is our own game. If we are prepared, motivated, and calm, I believe we can play a good match and then anything is possible.” Despite the logistical challenges, the team spirit remains one of their biggest strengths. “The atmosphere is really good,” TODOROVIC said. “Even though we don’t spend much time together, we support each other and stay connected. When we meet for matches, that energy is there.” For MIRÓ Ganxets Costa Daurada, simply reaching this stage is already a milestone. But the ambition does not stop here. “Well… reaching the final would be a dream come true,” the President said.” Now we need our supporters to make our dream a reality in the short history of our club, which has only been around for 12 years.” Domestically, the team continues to perform strongly in the Spanish league, currently sitting among the top teams. While those results help build confidence, the players see European competition as a completely different challenge. “Winning in the league gives you confidence, of course,” she said. “But European matches are something else. Every match is its own story.”
Young Talents Take Centre Stage in Sarajevo at JOOLA EYS Bosnia and Herzegovina Open
The JOOLA Europe Youth Series continues its journey with the Bosnia and Herzegovina Open, where some of Europe’s most promising young players will gather in Sarajevo from 21 to 25 April. See the pictures here. Set to take place at the Arena Hotel Hills in Ilidža, the tournament will once again bring together a vibrant mix of emerging talents, all looking to test themselves on the international stage and take another step forward in their development. This year’s event features a entry list with players arriving from all over Europe. From the host nation Bosnia and Herzegovina to countries like Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, England, Georgia, Germany, Hungary, Moldova, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, Türkiye, Scotland and AIN, the level of competition promises to be both high and unpredictable. The mixed team event will once again play a key role in the early stages of the tournament. With teams combining boys and girls, the format brings a special dynamic to the competition. The action begins with team events, before moving into singles and doubles competitions in both U13 and U15 categories. Over five days, players will compete across multiple stages, building towards the final matches on 25 April.
Cajasur Priego chasing final spot in Spain as Lille challenge awaits
After surviving a real rollercoaster in the quarter-finals, Real Club Cajasur Priego TM now find themselves just one step away from the final of the ETTU Europe Cup. Standing in their way is Lille Métropole TT – another team full of ambition, and one that promises a very different kind of test. For Robert Robert GARDOS, the timing couldn’t be much better. “I feel good. I have fewer matches now, so I can really focus on the important ones,” GARDOS said. “The French league is finished, in Poland there are just the play-offs left, and in the US we’ve also finished the play-offs. So now the focus is fully on Europe and I hope we can reach the final.” If there’s one thing Cajasur bring into this semi-final, it’s experience under pressure. Their tie against HB Ostrov z.s. had everything, momentum swings, tight matches, and in the end, a golden match to decide it all. Even after building an advantage in the first leg, they were pushed to the limit away from home. “We didn’t play our best, but we kept fighting,” GARDOS said. “That was the key, we never gave up.” And when it mattered most, they delivered. While GARDOS is one of the most experienced players in the competition, he is the first to say this run hasn’t been about individuals. “Of course, experience helps, but the team is more important,” he explained. “Priego enjoyed a very strong Champions League campaign with several important wins. Ultimately, the strength of the team is more important than individual experience, and we have players like MACHADO who bring many years at the top level.” That balance between experience and team spirit has been one of Cajasur’s biggest strengths so far. Looking ahead, there are no illusions about what’s coming. “It will be a very difficult match. It’s a semi-final,” GARDOS said. “We want to play a strong first leg and give ourselves a real chance for the second match at home, where we are very strong with our supporters.” And if the quarter-finals are anything to go by, this tie could go all the way again. “It will be a big fight. Both teams want to make history for their clubs.” Domestically, things are also on track, with Cajasur still leading the Spanish league, even if there are a few matches left to play. Right now, everything is about Europe. With momentum, belief, and the confidence of having already come through one major test, Cajasur head into the semi-finals knowing exactly what is required.
Roskilde ready to embrace long-awaited semi-final challenge against El Nino Praha
For Roskilde Bordtennis BTK 61, the Europe Cup Men semi-finals are more than just another stage in the competition they are the realization of a long-held ambition. After years of pushing for a breakthrough, the Danish side has finally reached the last four, where they will face SF SKK El Nino Praha in what promises to be a highly competitive tie. “We have dreamed of a semi-final in the ETTU Cup for many years and now we are here,” said Alan BENTSEN. “The players are in good shape, and this is something special for all of us.” Roskilde’s path to the semi-finals has been built on both quality and resilience. After a commanding 3-0 home victory against AS Pontoise Cergy TT, they faced a tougher challenge in France, eventually losing the second leg 3-2, but crucially doing enough to progress. Even when the momentum shifted, the team showed maturity. “In the return match, we kept our heads cool even when we fell behind,” BENTSEN explained. “The players showed real mental strength.” Key contributions came from Jens LUNDQVIST and Tobias RASMUSSEN, who once again delivered when it mattered most, underlining the depth within the squad. Entering the competition as the No. 13 seed in the ETTU Champions League Stage 1 at the beginning of the season, Roskilde have already exceeded expectations with impressive wins over ASC Grünwettersbach and AS Pontoise Cergy TT. “I have always felt that the Europe Cup suits our level well,” BENTSEN noted. “If everything goes right, we can compete in the decisive matches and now we are there.” With four players capable of stepping up, the Danish side has found a balance that allows them to compete with Europe’s stronger clubs. “Jens and Tobias have played particularly well this season, but we have four strong players who can all perform.” Standing in their way are SF SKK El Nino Praha a team Roskilde knows well, having faced them last season. “We lost to them last year, but we are a bit stronger now,” said BENTSEN. “And a semi-final is a completely different situation.” The Czech side, featuring players such as Tomas KONECNY, David REITSPIES, and Yevhen PRYSHCHEPA, brings experience and consistency, making this clash finely balanced. Roskilde’s strong European run is mirrored by their domestic form. The team has also reached the semi-finals of the Danish league, with ambitions to go even further. “In the Danish league, we have also played our way into the semi-finals, and the goal is to reach the final,” BENTSEN said. “These matches are very important for us as preparation for the Europe Cup.” The challenge against El Nino Praha will not be easy but for a team that has already shown composure under pressure and the ability to rise when it matters, the semi-final represents not just a test, but an opportunity. And one they are ready to take.
El Niňo Praha face familiar rival in Europe Cup semi-final
Czech clubs remain firmly in the race for silverware in the ETTU Europe Cup, with last year’s runner up SF SKK El Niňo Praha now just one step away from the final. Their semi-final opponent will be a familiar one Roskilde Bordtennis BTK 61, a team they have met several times in recent years. But while past encounters often leaned in favour of the Czech side, this time the feeling is slightly different. “In the past, we were the favourites against Roskilde. This year, it’s not so clear,” admitted coach Petr KAUCKÝ. “They have a very strong team and they are definitely in the semi-finals for a reason.” The Danish side arrives stronger than before, having reinforced their squad ahead of the season. The addition of experienced Swedish player Anders ERIKSSON has brought extra quality and balance, making Roskilde a more complete and dangerous opponent. For El Niňo, that means there is little room for complacency. With both teams evenly matched, the semi-final is expected to be decided by fine margins, something KAUCKÝ is well aware of. At the same time, the Czech side sees a potential advantage in the structure of the tie. “Playing the second leg in Prague could be very important for us,” he explained. “Our hall is quite specific, and if it comes down to a Golden Match, that could really help us.” The approach for the opening leg is therefore clear, stay close, stay competitive, and bring the tie back home in a strong position. “We want to go to Denmark and get as many points as possible.” El Niňo Praha have grown into the competition. They came through the Round of 16 against Enoli Borges Vall with confidence, and followed it up with another solid performance in the quarter-finals against TTC Sokah Hoboken. With a strong lineup expected, including David REITŠPIES, Tomáš KONEČNÝ and Yevgen PRYSHCHEPA, the Czech side has both experience and quality at its disposal.
Hodonín face tough challenge against Cagliari in Europe Cup Women semi-final
After reaching last season’s final, SKST Plus Hodonín are back in the semi-finals of the ETTU Europe Cup Women – and once again dreaming of going all the way. This time, their path to the final goes through ASD Quattro Mori Cagliari, a team that has been one of the standout performers this season. “I think the chances are open,” said coach Jaroslav MIKESKA. “The Italians are probably the favourites, but we will play in our strongest lineup and we definitely want to advance.” Hodonín come into this tie full of confidence after one of the most dramatic quarter-finals of the competition. Against TTC Novi Sad, everything went down to the very last moment. Both teams won one leg each, pushing the tie into a golden match. Under pressure, Hodonín kept their composure. Zhang BINYUE and Karin GROFOVÁ stepped up when it mattered most, securing the wins that sent the Czech side through. It was a tie that showed not only quality, but also character. Cagliari bring a strong and experienced lineup, something Hodonín fully recognise. “MA Hengyu, Elizabet ABRAAMIAN and Tania PLAIAN are players you have to respect,” MIKESKA said. “But we also have a good team.” The Czech champions will rely on their key trio – Zhang BINYUE, Karin GROFOVÁ and Markéta ŠEVČÍKOVÁ, hoping their balance and fighting spirit can make the difference. Preparation for the semi-final has been straightforward and focused. Rather than looking for outside help, Hodonín have relied on their own analysis of Cagliari’s matches throughout the season. “We didn’t contact Hana MATELOVÁ,” MIKESKA explained. “We are working with what we have seen from Cagliari during the season.” With experience from last year and confidence from a dramatic quarter-final, Hodonín know what it takes to compete at this stage. At the same time, they are aware that this will be another close battle.
