Bulgaria is through to its first FIVB Men's World Championship Finals since 1970 after taking down Czechia in a hard-fought semifinal battle.
Bulgaria is officially headed to the FIVB Men’s World Championship Finals for the first time in 55 years after firing past Czechia in the semifinals, 25-20, 23-25, 25-21, 25-22, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Saturday, September 27.
The four-set victory keeps the Bulgarians undefeated in the global tilt after six games, while also securing their first podium finish since 2006.
Aleksandar Nikolov was unstoppable once more with his tournament-high 31 points on 28 attacks, one block, and two aces.
Team captain Aleks Grozdanov and Asparuh Asparuhov added 12 and 10 markers, respectively.
Bulgaria will now await the winner between Poland and Italy in the gold medal match tomorrow, September 28, still at the MOA Arena.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.