A MONSTER block from 21-year-old, sub-in middle Preslav Petkov proved to be the match winner for Bulgaria as it went on to post a 25-19, 25-23, 25-13 victory over Portugal on Monday.
The Bulgarians went on to qualify for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship quarterfinals at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Bulgaria’s quarterfinal opponent will be known later on Monday night, following the match between Team USA and Slovenia.
Star outside hitter Aleksandar Nikolov led with 17 spike kills, plus and an ace and a block, for a total of 19 attack points.
Bulgaria dominated from the first set to the last and ended its encounter with a six-point lead.
After middle blocker Iliya Petkov nailed the first-set winner for Bulgaria, Portugal fought back and stayed competitive throughout set two.
But Bulgarian opposite Asparuh Asparuhov scored the 25th point with a block to give his team the second set.
“I am feeling great! I am lost for words a little bit. We are in the top eight,” said Nikolov.
Belgium also made it to the last eight after they shut out Finland, 25-21, 25-17, 25-21.
Opposite Ferre Reggers put an end to the match with a block-out hit, before delivering 18 points.
