Poland's head coach Nikola Grbic expects Bulgaria to be one of the two most serious opponents for the European champion in the group stage of EuroVolley 2026 in Sofia.
Just days before the start of the championship, the Serbian specialist commented to Polsat Sport on what he expects from the battle in Group B, which also includes Ukraine, Portugal, Israel, and North Macedonia.
"As for the group stage, I expect tough matches with Ukraine and Bulgaria," Grbic stated.
After advancing from the group, Poland's head coach does not expect an easy path regardless of the opponent.
"After that, it doesn't matter who we face – it will be a tough opponent. Slovenia, France, Italy, Serbia, or Germany – it doesn't matter, because each of these teams has several volleyball players who, if they have a good day, can play at a very high level. That's why we must strive to show our best possible volleyball," Grbic added.
Poland begins its European title defense on September 10 against Portugal. This is followed by matches against Israel on September 12, North Macedonia on September 13, and Ukraine on September 15. The Polish team is expected to land in Sofia tonight.
The big clash with Bulgaria is left for the end of the group stage – on September 16. The first four teams in the final standings of the group advance to the round of 16.

photo: Nikolay Varadinov