Bulgaria kept its hopes alive for a spot in the Volleyball Nations League 2025 Finals after securing a momentous victory over top-ranked Poland on Saturday. The electrifying five-set match unfolded in front of a capacity crowd at the Ergo Arena in Gdańsk.
The Bulgarians emerged triumphant with a final score of 3-2 (17-25, 25-22, 25-23, 27-29, 15-11), propelled by a game-winning ace from substitute setter Simeon Nikolov. This win marks Bulgaria`s first against Poland since 2017, breaking a ten-match losing streak against their formidable opponents.
This critical victory and the two points earned significantly boost Bulgaria`s chances for the VNL Finals. Currently in ninth place with six wins and 17 points, they are within striking distance of sixth-placed Cuba (six wins, 19 points) and seventh-placed Ukraine (six wins, 18 points). Their final match against Iran on Sunday will be decisive.
The Nikolov brothers played a pivotal role in Bulgaria`s success. Outside hitter Aleksandar led the team with an impressive 24 points, comprising 19 kills, three blocks, and two aces. Setter Simeon sealed the win with his crucial ace.
“I believe the only approach we can take when we play is to give our absolute best,” Simeon stated. “Sometimes you perform well, and the opposing team might not be at their peak, allowing you to capitalize. We did that today, and we nearly won the fourth set, but it slipped away. Landing that final ace felt incredibly satisfying, especially after feeling a bit down at the start of the fifth set. I’m just delighted we secured the win and that I could be the one to finish it.”
Outside hitter Martin Atanasov and opposite Venislav Antov also delivered strong performances, each tallying 13 points for Bulgaria.
For Poland, who are well-positioned for qualification in third place with seven wins and 21 points, middle blocker Mateusz Poręba contributed 15 points, outside hitter Bartosz Bednorz added 12, opposite Bartlomiej Bołądź scored 11, and outside hitter Wilfredo Leon chipped in ten.
The second and final match of the day in Gdańsk will feature Olympic champions France facing Iran at 20:30 local time (18:30 GMT).
Serbia Secures VNL Status for 2026
In Ljubljana, Serbia cemented its position in the VNL for 2026 by triumphing for the second consecutive day. The Europeans defeated Canada 3-1 (15-25, 25-22, 25-18, 25-22), effectively avoiding relegation from the league.
With their third victory in the tournament, Serbia accumulated nine points, climbing to 15th place. This outcome means 18th-placed Netherlands, with only one win and five points, will not compete in the VNL in 2026.
Star opposite Drazen Luburić continued his stellar form, following a crucial victory against Ukraine on Friday with another 20-point performance against Canada (18 kills, two aces). Captain Marko Ivovič was also instrumental, contributing 14 points, all from kills.
“It’s a fantastic feeling to achieve two consecutive wins in the VNL for the first time,” setter Nikola Jovović remarked. “We competed against a very strong team that has shown excellent volleyball in the VNL. It took immense effort to secure the win today. Our primary goal this week was to retain our spot in the VNL, and it’s gratifying to know we accomplished that. While volleyball always has its highs and lows, I believe our victory against Ukraine lifted our spirits for today’s match.”
Canada’s offense was led by outside hitters Brodie Hofer, who scored 15 points (14 kills, one block), and Isaac Heslinga, who added 14 points (12 kills, two blocks).
Hosts Slovenia and world champions Italy are set to clash in the second match of the day at the Arena Stožice on Saturday, scheduled to commence at 20:30 local time (18:30 GMT).
Jasper Thornfield 
Oliver Wrenwick