After a strong performance in the first tournament of the Volleyball Nations League in Quebec, brothers Alex and Simeon Nikolov shared their impressions and hopes for the home games in Burgas upon their return from Canada to "Vasil Levski" Airport.
The Bulgarian national volleyball team returned withtwo wins and two losses, which puts the team intenth place in the temporary standings with 5 points. The players noted progress and expressed pride in the results, though they did not hide that there is still room for improvement.
„We are very happy with our performance in the first tournament. We could have finished with even more, but we haven't had two wins since I've been on the national team. So I'm very happy and proud of the team, said Alex Nikolov at the airport.
„It's a shame we couldn't finish with a win. We could have beaten the opponent, but in the end they outplayed us. But as Alex said, it's been a long time since we had two wins in one week. We have reasons to be proud, added Simeon Nikolov.
Focus on the Fans and Hosting in Burgas
A key highlight in the brothers' statements was the need for a larger audience and support. The tournament in Burgas will be crucial for Bulgaria's performance, but also an opportunity to create an atmosphere that will give the team an additional advantage.
„That was also the idea - to increase viewership a bit, for fans to start watching us at night... Now we are waiting for them in Burgas. Let's fill the hall and win!, urged Alex.
Moni shared a personal emotion related to the upcoming matches in front of a home crowd:
„It's a really cool feeling, no matter what time it is, to know that people are waking up to watch you. All my life I've waited to play for the men's national team in front of a home crowd. I've witnessed my father play in front of packed halls and I can't wait to experience that thrill.“
Individual recognition and ambitions
Simeon Nikolov received recognition with his inclusion in the Dream Team of the week in the VNL - a reason for pride, but also for even greater ambition:
„The fact that I was included in the Dream Team of the week makes me proud, but I will be prouder if I am there at the end of the tournament. This gives me even more motivation to prove myself.“
Expectation and enthusiasm
The national team will seek new victories in front of its home crowd in Burgas, where the atmosphere promises to be "very cool," as Simeon Nikolov put it. The hope is that the crowd will provide the necessary impetus for a better ranking and to continue the upward rhythm.
After the good performance in Canada - Burgas is the new stage, and Bulgaria - ready for battle in front of its own.
photos: Nikolay Varadinov
