Bulgaria produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the World Volleyball Championship, overturning a 0:2 deficit to defeat the United States 3:2 in front of 10,181 spectators at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City. The victory secured Bulgaria’s first semifinal appearance since 2006, when the team claimed bronze.
The atmosphere was electric as fans witnessed a clash that highlighted both resilience and determination. Bulgaria, initially struggling to match the Americans’ pace, found themselves two sets down before mounting a remarkable fightback. The result sets up a semifinal showdown with the Czech Republic, who earlier defeated Iran 3:1.
The opening set was dominated by the USA, with Bulgaria falling behind 4:7 early on. American serves and aggressive attacks kept the Bulgarians at bay, despite spirited efforts from Martin Atanasov, Alex Nikolov, and Asparuh Asparuhov.
The Americans closed the set 25:21. The second set followed a similar pattern, with Bulgaria unable to recover from costly errors. Strong hitting from Asparuhov and Atanasov kept the margin close, but the USA eventually pulled away, winning 25:19.
With the Americans seemingly on course for a straight-sets victory, Bulgaria found their turning point in the third set. Central attacks from Alex Grozdanov and sharp hitting from Nikolov gave them early momentum.
Key blocks from Asparuhov and Iliya Petkov added defensive strength, while Petkov’s serving turned the tide. Bulgaria stormed through the set 25:17, breathing new life into their semifinal hopes.
The fourth set was a nail-biter, with both teams trading points. Bulgaria seized control late, thanks to decisive plays from Nikolov and strong support from Grozdanov and Asparuhov. Closing with a 25:22 win, the Bulgarians forced a decisive tiebreak.
In the final set, Bulgaria carried their momentum forward. Nikolov’s relentless scoring broke through the American block, while contributions from Simeon Nikolov, Georgi Tatarov, and Petkov piled on the pressure.
Establishing an early lead, Bulgaria held firm and clinched the tiebreak 15:13, completing a comeback that will be remembered as one of the tournament’s most thrilling matches.
Alexander Nikolov emerged as Bulgaria’s hero, finishing with 29 points, including an ace and two blocks. Asparuhov added 12 points with two blocks, while Petkov contributed 10 points, highlighted by two aces. For the USA, Ethan Champlin scored 17 points, supported by Jordan Ewert with 15.
The result underscores Bulgaria’s resilience and teamwork, marking their long-awaited return to the final four. As the team prepares to face the Czech Republic in the semifinals, Bulgarian fans will be hopeful of adding another medal to their history.