The Iranian national team defeated Ukraine with a score of 3:2 sets in an extremely competitive and dramatic match, in which both teams exchanged dominance, but in the end, the more experienced and stable Iranian team prevailed in the decisive moments with scores of: 30-28, 20-25, 25-22, 21-25, 9-15.

Ukraine showed impressive blocking with 14 points, which is a significant advantage over Iran (8 blocks). In addition, the team was stable in setting and receiving, registering 129 successful sets and 99 receptions – indicators that testify to good organization and teamwork.

The shortcomings, however, proved decisive – 23 points conceded through unforced errors and lower attacking efficiency (62 points against Iran's 66), as well as less activity in defense (50 against 64 digs).

Iran distinguished itself with a strong attack (66 points) and exceptional defense – 64 successful digs, which allowed the team to maintain its lead in the decisive moments. The top scorer of the match was Alex Nikolov's teammate at Lube, Civitanova Porya (No. 9) with 23 points, and the support from Morteza (19 points) guaranteed breadth in the attack.

Despite weaker blocking and fewer successful receptions compared to Ukraine, the Iranians compensated through a lower number of errors and more effective play in the fifth set.

🇧🇬 Ivaylo Ivanov with another strong tournament

This match marks the seventh participation of the best Bulgarian volleyball referee, Ivaylo Ivanov, on the international stage within the framework of the Nations League. After starting the tournament in Brazil at the women's tournament, Ivanov was the first referee for the Czech Republic – USA match (3:2) – a historic first victory for the Czechs in their debut participation in the VNL. He also officiated Germany – Brazil (2:3) as the first referee, and Czech Republic – Brazil (0:3) and Korea – USA (0:3) as the second referee.

After that, Ivanov remained in Rio de Janeiro for the men's tournament, where he continued with assignments – first referee for Brazil – Iran (3:0) and for today's match Ukraine – Iran (2:3). He was also the second referee for the Ukraine – Brazil match (2:3).

📌 In total, Ivanov officiated 7 matches, 4 of which ended in a tie-break and 3 with convincing 3:0 victories. Ivanov's participation will continue in Ljubljana, which is proof of the trust the international volleyball federation places in him and the class he demonstrates at the highest level.

photos:volleyballworld.com