In the first semi-final match of the CEV Volleyball Challenge Cup, Bulgarian international Alex Grozdanov and his team BOGDANKA LUK Lublin achieved a convincing 3:0 (25:18, 25:21, 25:18) away victory against Sporting CP Lisbon. With this success, the Polish team took a decisive step towards the final, needing only two sets won in the return leg to secure participation in the final phase of the tournament.
Grozdanov's contribution in the third set
The captain of the Bulgarian national team, Alex Grozdanov, did not start as a starter, but came into play in the second set, and remained on the court longer in the third set. The Bulgarian middle blocker scored two points - one from a block and one from a serve. Additionally, he made six serves without error, demonstrating stability in this element of the game.
Key moments from the match
First set: Despite not particularly impressive attack efficiency (35%), BOGDANKA LUK capitalized on many opponent errors, who made a total of 12 unforced errors compared to only 3 for the Polish team.
Second set: The visitors took a convincing 20:12 lead, but after a brief slump, Sporting reduced the difference to 20:18. Nevertheless, LUK kept its composure and closed out the set.
Third set: The Portuguese offered more serious resistance at the beginning (4:1, 12:10), but in the end, BOGDANKA LUK imposed its rhythm and won the match unequivocally.
Statistical highlights
The most effective player for the Polish team was Mikołaj Sawicki with 14 points (1 ace, 1 block, 63% attack efficiency).
The team from Lublin maintains a winning streak in this year's European club tournaments, where they currently have 32 victories in the Champions League, CEV Cup, and Challenge Cup.
What's next?
The return leg in the 'Globus' hall in Lublin will take place on February 26 at 18:00. To guarantee participation in the final, BOGDANKA LUK needs to win at least two sets. Given their form and home advantage, they are favorites for overall success.
Alex Grozdanov and his teammates are only two sets away from the big goal – a final in the European competition.
