Sesc RJ Flamengo secured an important 3-1 victory over Fluminense in the opening derby of the 2026 Women’s Super Volleyball Cup, in a hard-fought and thrilling match in Niterói.
The women’s volleyball season kicked off with a Rio de Janeiro derby that lit up the courts in Niterói. Sesc RJ Flamengo faced their rivals Fluminense in the 2026 Women’s Super Volleyball Cup and came away with a 3-1 win. The match, marked by moments of instability and momentum shifts, highlighted the red-and-black team’s fighting spirit and the individual talent of its players.
The competition’s opening clash presented a challenging scenario for both squads, reflecting the early stages of preparation. Despite a delayed start due to a power outage, the players delivered a high-level spectacle, with Flamengo securing the triumph after a remarkable performance, especially in the decisive moments.
Derby Details and Final Score
Despite the initial delay, high intensity defined the duel between the teams. The final score of 3 sets to 1 for Sesc RJ Flamengo was built with partials of 25-20, 19-25, 25-22, and 28-26. Each set demonstrated the balanced forces on the court, with teams trading the lead and providing thrilling comebacks that kept the fans engaged until the final point.
The Stars on the Court
On Sesc RJ Flamengo‘s side, the coaching staff relied on the experience and talent of players such as Vivian, Tainara, and Lorena, all of whom have represented the Brazil national team at the last South American Championship. Outside hitter Simone Lee, who shined in the previous season, was also a key piece in the red-and-black victory. For Fluminense, Argentine coach Facundo Morando deployed compatriot Bianca Bertolino and, throughout the match, utilized Spanish-naturalized Brazilian opposite hitter Julia de Paula.
Game Dynamics
The match proved to be a true test of physical and tactical condition for both rosters. Flamengo demonstrated superiority at the service line right in the first set, with Tainara‘s performance making a difference. However, Fluminense fought back and leveled the action in the second set, fueled by Valquíria‘s efficient blocking and Aline Segato‘s attacking effectiveness. The shifting momentum made it clear that preparations are still ongoing, promising a highly competitive season.
Tainara Decides in the Most Thrilling Set
The fourth set was undoubtedly the highlight of the night, with both teams fighting for every point in long, hard-fought rallies. The red-and-black team stayed ahead on the scoreboard for most of the partial, but Fluminense showed resilience by saving match points and even taking a momentary lead.
Nevertheless, Tainara taking center stage in the final stretch, with decisive spikes, sealed Flamengo‘s victory, securing the first points in the competition.
The derby win not only guarantees a strong start in the 2026 Women’s Super Volleyball Cup for Sesc RJ Flamengo, but also serves as an important barometer for the upcoming season. The team showed grit and the ability to overcome adversity, crucial elements for the upcoming phases.
Upcoming Super Volleyball Cup Matches
The 2026 Women’s Super Volleyball Cup continues with key matches. Fluminense returns to the court this Friday (25) to face Dentil Praia Clube at 8:00 PM. The triangular tournament concludes on Saturday (26) with the matchup between Dentil Praia Clube and Sesc RJ Flamengo at 7:00 PM.
All matches will be broadcast live on SporTV 2, and Flamengo fans can also follow their team’s matches on the Flamengo TV channel on YouTube.
Equipe M360
