Bulgaria Shocks Japan with Decisive Three-Set Win

Fueled by passionate home support in Burgas, the European team secured a comfortable victory against the reigning Asian champions.

Outside hitter Aleksandar Nikolov was the top scorer with 17 points.

Bulgaria`s inaugural home match in the 2025 Volleyball Nations League proved highly successful for the European squad, as they overcame last year`s silver medalists, Japan, in Burgas on Wednesday.

Performing before an enthusiastic home crowd, the Bulgarian team recovered from a significant deficit in the opening set and maintained their composure during critical moments to defeat the Japanese side 3-0 (27-25, 25-23, 25-19) in the day`s final match at Arena Burgas.

This unexpected triumph significantly impacted the FIVB World Rankings. Bulgaria earned 17.46 points, climbing three places from 17th to 14th, while Japan lost the same amount and dropped from fourth to sixth.

The positive outcome also tightened the competition in the VNL standings. Japan slipped from second to fourth place with nine points (three wins, two losses), while Bulgaria ascended to sixth, entering the qualification zone with eight points (three wins, two losses).

Popular player and star outside hitter Aleksandar Nikolov led the Bulgarian charge to victory, contributing a match-high 17 points (14 successful attacks, two blocks, one ace). Team captain and middle blocker Aleks Grozdanov added 12 points, surpassing opposite hitter Venislav Antov`s tally by one.

“It was a truly exceptional evening,” Nikolov commented. “The game and the atmosphere were incredible. We need every win we can get and will keep pushing forward. We are counting on our fans` support in the coming days.”

For the Japanese team, outside hitter Masato Kai was their most effective player, scoring 13 points (ten kills, two aces, one block). Opposite hitter Kento Miyaura contributed 11 points, all through attacks.

“Playing Bulgaria in their home arena was very challenging for us,” stated outside hitter Tatsunori Otsuka. “We weren`t able to play our best game today, but we have another crucial match tomorrow, and we will prepare to improve.”

Other Match Results: France and Slovenia Secure Wins

The day`s play in Burgas concluded with Bulgaria`s win. Earlier matches saw defending champions France defeat Ukraine 3-0 (25-23, 25-21, 25-17), and Slovenia also secure a 3-0 victory against Türkiye (25-16, 25-22, 25-18).