Pasay city: Bulgaria defeated Portugal, 25-19, 25-23, 25-13, to qualify for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship quarterfinals at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
According to Philippines News Agency, Aleksander Nikolov led the Bulgarian team with 19 points, comprised of 17 attacks, one block, and an ace, securing the victory after one hour and 33 minutes of gameplay. Following the match, Nikolov expressed his satisfaction, stating, “I am super happy we are in the top eight. We were confident. We are gaining confidence with each game, with each set, with each point. And it is key to winning some big games like this one today.”
Martin Atanasov contributed nine points, including five attacks, three blocks, and one ace, while team captain Aleks Grozdanov added eight points with five attacks, two blocks, and one ace. This victory marks Bulgaria’s first advancement to the Top 8 since 2002. Bulgaria is set to compete against the winner of the match between the USA and Slovenia in the upcoming round.
On the Portuguese side, outside hitter Lourenco Martins led with 10 points, consisting of six attacks, three aces, and one block. Nuno Marques added six points to Portugal’s efforts.
Already securing spots in the quarterfinals alongside Bulgaria are teams from Turkiye, Poland, Italy, and Belgium.
