Bulgaria secure place in EuroVolley 2026 knockout stage

Bulgaria have secured their place in the knockout stage of the 2026 Men’s European Volleyball Championship after beating Israel 3-1 (23-25, 25-22, 25-15, 25-20) at Arena 8888 in Sofia. The world championship silver medallists bounced back from their defeat by Ukraine in the previous match.

The match did not start well for Bulgaria. Israel came out strongly, putting the Bulgarian side under pressure with some excellent receiving and attacking play, and took the opening set 25-23.

Bulgaria regrouped in the second, with Asparuh Asparuhov making a strong impact as they levelled the match. An emphatic third set was followed by a more comfortable fourth, sending Gianlorenzo Blengini’s side through to the last 16.

The victory means Bulgaria are guaranteed a top-four finish in Group B, with the four leading teams advancing to the knockout stage.

Editor: Ivo Ivanov