History, written before the eyes of our best referee – Ivaylo Ivanov!

On the third day of the opening week of the 2025 Volleyball Nations League, the world witnessed one of the most exciting and unexpected comebacks in the tournament's history – and this moment unfolded before the eyes of our Ivaylo Ivanov, who, with honor and professionalism, was the FIRST REFEREE of the match!

On the stage of the legendary 'Maracanazinho' arena in Rio de Janeiro, the debutants from the Czech Republic shocked the volleyball world by recording their FIRST victory in the Volleyball Nations League, and against whom – against the three-time champions and giants of world volleyball – the United States!

Supported by thousands of enthusiastic fans, the Czech women forged a victory with3-2 (23-25, 20-25, 25-17, 25-20, 27-25), coming back in the match from a two-set deficit. This was not just a success – it was a feat! They saved a total often match pointsand demonstrated fighting spirit and unwavering resolve, worthy of respect.

"After losing the first two sets, we knew we had to be more aggressive in attack," said Czech coach Ioannis Athanasopoulos after the match. But the team's true strength was shown in their character – not to give up, to fight until the last ball.

Three Czech volleyball players finished with over 20 points – Monika Brancuska (23), Michaela Mlejnkova (22), and Magdalena Bukovska (21). This was a triumph of the collective, of faith, and of the desire to leave a mark.

"I am proud of my team. We believed even at 0:2. This was one of the most emotional matches of my life," said captain Mlejnkova with tears in her eyes.

With the victory, the Czech Republic secured+12.49 pointsto their world ranking and solidified their 13th position. The USA dropped to seventh place after losing the same number of points.