The Bulgarian national volleyball team qualified for the semifinals of the World Championship, defeating the USA with 3:2 (21:25, 19:25, 25:17, 25:22, 15:13) in a dramatic quarterfinal match played in Pasay City, Philippines.
This is a remarkable achievement for the Bulgarian team, which for the first time since 2006 has qualified among the Top 4 of a volleyball world championship, a year in which they won bronze medals.
The Match
The match began with a clear American advantage. The strong American serve, combined with visible nervousness in the ranks of the Bulgarian team, led to the loss of the first two sets with 21:25 and 19:25. The Americans demonstrated tactical maturity, adapting their serve according to the opponent"s game and successfully disrupting the rhythm of the Bulgarian volleyball players.
The Turnaround
The turnaround began in the third set. The Bulgarian team showed significant improvement in the block and attack, quickly building a 5-point lead. Improved serve play brought additional points, dominating the set and winning it 25:17.
Fourth Set
The fourth set was extremely contested, with a constant exchange of points and the leading role of powerful attacks and strong serves from both sides. With the score 22:22, the Bulgarian volleyball players, showing brilliant tactics, used a float serve, winning three consecutive points and tying the match.
Fifth Set
The fifth set, the decisive tie-break, was filled with tension and emotions. Successful attacks by Alexander and Simeon Nikolovi gave Bulgaria a four-point advantage. The Americans fought to the end, reducing the difference to two points, but the strong play of Georgi Tatarov and the decisive attack of Iliya Petkov secured Bulgaria"s victory with 15:13.
Results
Alex Nikolov was the top scorer for Bulgaria with 29 points, Asparuh Asparuhov added 12, and Iliya Petkov – 10. On the US side, Eaton Champlin scored 17 points, Jordan Worth – 15, and Merrick McKhenry – 12. Despite the loss, the American volleyball players showed strong character and sportsmanship.
The Next Match
For the Bulgarian fans, the triumph brought a wave of emotions. The semifinal qualification is undeniable proof of the quality and potential of the Bulgarian national team. An upcoming clash with Czech Republic, a team that earlier in the day sensationally eliminated Iran with 3:1, will determine who will fight for a place in the grand final.