Three strong tests before the World Cup in China
The Bulgarian men's under-21 national team departed for the French city of Metz, where they will play three control matches in preparation for the World Championship in China (August 18–31). Coach Vencislav Simeonov's boys will face the strong Brazilian team twice – on August 4 and 6, and on August 5 they will test their strength against Germany.
The control matches are an important stage of preparation, as they will provide the staff with a real idea of the team's form against high-class opponents, part of the world elite in this age group.
Without Velichkov in France, with an eye on China
Jasmin Velichkov, who yesterday finished his participation in the U19 World Championship in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, is not included in the squad for the friendly matches. Velichkov is expected to join the group after the tournament and be part of the squad for the World Cup in China.
Bad news for the staff is the absence of opposite hitter Kristian Titriyski, who will miss the World Championship due to ankle surgery performed two weeks ago. His recovery will take about two months, and he will not be available for the tournament.
Bulgaria's squad for the control matches in France
| Position | Name | Club |
|---|---|---|
| Setters | Viktor Zekov | Montana |
| Daniel Mitsin | Pirin | |
| Rangel Vitekov | Beroe 2016 | |
| Outside Hitters | Alexander Kandev | Long Beach |
| Kristiyan Andreev | CSKA | |
| Lyubomir Zlatkov | CSKA | |
| Nikolay Ivanov | Cambi Reali Cantu (Italy) | |
| Ognyan Hristov | — | |
| Opposites | Georgi Bachvarov | Beroe 2016 |
| Mark Mihaylov | CSKA | |
| Middle blockers | Aleksandar Nikolov | Lokomotiv |
| Konstantin Dinov | Slavia | |
| Kostadin Kozelov | Pirin | |
| Georgi Paunov | Hebar | |
| Stiliyan Delibosov | California Northridge (USA) | |
| Tomislav Rusev | — | |
| Libero | Aleksandar Tsanev | Cherno More |
| Konstantin Chipev | Levski | |
| Yasen Petrov | Neftochimic |
Team Staff:
Head Coach:Ventsislav Simeonov
Assistant Coach:Todor Aleksiev
The expectations for this team are serious, and the upcoming matches against Brazil and Germany will show the real condition of the squad before the start of the World Cup in China. Bulgaria is among the ambitious teams in this age group and will strive for a place in the elimination phase.
