BERLIN, Sep. 14 (Xinhua) -- Russia overpowered Germany 3-1 in a thrilling affair in outsold Max-Schmelling-Halle at the CAV Women's Volleyball European Championship final here on Saturday.
Germany were unable to spring a surprise on home soil against powerhouse Russia as they failed to hold the pace with the world champions in the fourth set.
The hosts proved yesterday against Belgium that they were able to turn the tides after a 2-0 deficit but against Russia they were able to keep the spectators in suspense until the fourth set.
Russia, that lead the all time ranking of European championship with 24 medals, wrapped the first set 25-23, but Germany remained unimpressed and grabbed the second set 25-23 to level the scores with the world champions.
However, Russia kept their nerves against resilient Germans to secure the third set 25-23. The 2-1 deficit in sets made the hosts wobble as they were unable to match up to Russia's supremacy in the fourth set. Thus, Germany were incapable to fight off the 25-14 loss in the fourth set.
Germany waits for their third title, as the GDR won the Euro in 1983 and 1987.
"It was a difficult task against Russia today. We tried everything but it wasn't enough. I am incredibly proud of this team and absolutely satisfied with their performance," Germany coach Giovanni Guidetti said.
Earlier, Belgium completed the tournament with a stunning result as they edged defending champions Serbia 3-2 (23-25, 25-21, 28-26, 21-25, 15-11) in a breath-taking match for the third place.