Latvian volleyball team loses to Switzerland, ends European League campaign

The Latvian men's volleyball team concluded their CEV European League campaign with a 2-3 loss to Switzerland on Saturday in Norway. The set scores were 25:17, 20:25, 18:25, 25:21, 12:15. Switzerland currently ranks 31st in the world, while Latvia is 47th.

Latvia started strong, winning the first set after a block by setter Edvīns Skrūders. The second set was closely contested until 19-19, but Switzerland pulled ahead to win 25-20. Switzerland continued their momentum in the third set, building a 10-4 lead and taking it 25-18. Latvia fought back in the fourth set, leveling at 16-16 and eventually winning 25-21 with two aces from Renārs Jansons. The fifth set was tight, but Switzerland won the last four points to secure a 15-12 victory.

Earlier in the tournament, Latvia defeated Romania and Kosovo in Riga, lost to Montenegro and Portugal in Portugal, and beat Norway on Friday. Switzerland had previously lost to Spain, then beat Bosnia and Herzegovina, Luxembourg, and Hungary.

The European League now serves as part of the qualification for the 2028 European Championship. Each team plays three tournaments, with the top four advancing to the final round. Latvia will also compete in the European Championship final tournament later this year.

The Latvian squad includes players such as Toms Vanags, Jēkabs Dzenis, Gustavs Freimanis, Renārs Pauls Jansons, Kristaps Šmits, Edvīns Skrūders, and others.