:watermark(https://f.pmo.ee//logos/4132/d583334e07b643b158b745b655f05032.png,-2p,-2p,0,18,none):format(webp)/nginx/o/2026/06/04/17689375t1ha2bd.jpg "Latvia Women’s Volleyball Squad for European League Qualifiers")
Latvia Women’s Volleyball Squad for European League Qualifiers
The Latvian women’s national volleyball team, ranked 63rd by the FIVB, recently recorded losses to Romania (2-3) and Israel (0-3) during matches in Riga. In contrast, Slovenia, which holds the 19th FIVB ranking, secured straight-set victories over Montenegro, Georgia, and Iceland. These results occur as the European League now serves as a qualification path for the 2028 European Championship final tournament.
Why do the European League results matter?
The European League has undergone a restructuring. It now functions as part of the qualification process for the 2028 European Championship final tournament. According to the competition rules, each team is scheduled for three matches, and the four strongest teams will advance to the final round.
While these qualifications are ongoing, the Latvian national team is set to compete in the European Championship final tournament this year.
How did Slovenia and Latvia compare in recent play?
Slovenia dominated its recent matchups with a series of 3-0 wins. The team defeated Montenegro (25:18, 25:17, 25:22) and Georgia (25:16, 25:10, 26:24). They also beat Iceland twice, once on Friday (25:9, 25:9, 25:16) and again on Saturday (25:17, 25:21, 25:18).
Latvia faced a tougher stretch in Riga. The team fell 2-3 to Romania and was defeated 0-3 by Israel. These results could impact Latvia’s positioning as they navigate the restructured league format.
Who is on the Latvian national team roster?
The Latvian squad consists of 17 candidates. While most are active, Marta Gintere and liberos Sandija Bērziņa and Elīna Zvaigzne remained home and may join the team after returning from Slovenia.
The full list of candidates includes:
- Elvita Dolotova (Rīgas Stradiņa Universitāte)
- Elza Reknere (Tchalou, Belgium)
- Marta Kamēlija Levinska (Dresdner SC 1898, Germany)
- Irbe Lazda (Itas Trentino, Italy)
- Megija Dambrehte (Polkky, Finland)
- Paula Nikola Nečiporuka (Saint-Die-des-Vosges, France)
- Anija Jurdža (Wroclaw, Poland)
- Šarlote Šlitere (Rīgas Volejbola skola/Latvijas Universitāte)
- Katrīna Struka (Millenium, Italy)
- Karmena Struka (Ladies in Black, Germany)
- Junora Vagele (Wildcats, Germany)
- Anna Rīta (University of Coastal Carolina, USA)
- Marta Beatrise Gintere (Olomouca UP, Czech Republic)
- Megija Grundmane (Rīgas Stradiņa Universitāte)
- Kristīne Kramēna (Rīgas Stradiņa Universitāte)
- Sandija Bērziņa (Jūrmalas Volejbola klubs/Jūrmalas Sporta skola)
- Elīna Zvaigzne (Freisen, Germany)
What happens next for the teams?
Latvia’s performance in the European League may determine their trajectory toward the 2028 finals. Since only four teams advance from the current phase, Latvia’s ability to recover from their recent losses in Riga is a critical factor.
Slovenia is likely to maintain its momentum given its current 19th-place ranking and recent undefeated streak against Iceland, Georgia, and Montenegro.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Latvia’s current FIVB world ranking?
Latvia is currently ranked 63rd in the FIVB world rankings.
Which teams did Slovenia defeat in their recent matches?
Slovenia defeated Montenegro, Georgia, and Iceland.
How does the European League relate to the 2028 European Championship?
Following a restructuring, the European League now serves as part of the qualification process for the 2028 European Championship final tournament.
How do you think the new qualification structure will affect the competitiveness of the 2028 European Championship?