Manila.Six teams have already secured their spots in the round of 16 at the Men's World Volleyball Championship in the Philippines. The most intense battles for the remaining nine spots are yet to come. Bulgaria is closely monitoring the developments in GroupD, because that is where our opponent in the eliminations will come from. But before that, we must finish the well-started work and finish first in the group. To achieve this, Gianlorenzo Blengini's boys must be maximally concentrated against Chile – a team not to be underestimated.
Group D (USA, Cuba, Portugal, Colombia)
Portugalopens the day against the eliminated Colombia – an expected victory would bring them closer to a secure spot in the top 3 in the group.
The big match isUSA – Cuba, which will decide first place.
➡ For Bulgaria, the most important thing is whether we will meet the Portuguese or face a tougher opponent.
Group E (Bulgaria, Slovenia, Germany, Chile)
Bulgariais already in the round of 16, but needs to solidify its good rhythm against the last team in the group – Chile.
The direct clashSlovenia – Germanyis a "match of life and death" – the winner advances.
Where else is it hot?
Group B: Poland and Netherlands are already qualified, but will contend for first place.
Group G: Turkey and Canada are confirmed participants, it only remains to be seen who will be the leader.
Group H: Brazil, Serbia, and Czech Republic are in a triangle – any mistake could cost participation in the elimination stage.
Group C: France, Argentina, and Finland are still in the game, the intrigue here is complete.
Group A: Egypt – Tunisia and Philippines – Iran are direct duels for progression.
Group F: Italy and Ukraine will face off for a place alongside Belgium, who have qualified for the Round of 16.
Surprises so far
Netherlandsconvincingly won their group and are already among the confirmed quarter-finalists – few expected this in the absence of their big star Nimir Abdel-Aziz.
CanadaandTurkeyalso delivered pleasant surprises with their guaranteed qualification even before the last match.
France, Olympic champion, made a mistake and must prove themselves on the last day.
Program for Wednesday, September 17, 2025Time (Bulgaria) Group Match 05:00 D Portugal – Colombia 05:30 B Qatar – Romania 08:30 E Bulgaria – Chile 09:00 G Canada – Turkey 12:30 D USA – Cuba 13:00 B Poland – Netherlands 16:00 E Slovenia – Germany 16:30 G Japan – Libya
Bulgaria is in a comfortable position – already qualified, with a suitable final opponent. The big question remains: will we play against Portugal, or will a much bigger challenge from USA/Cuba await us?
photo: Nikolay Varadinov
