The Men's Volleyball World Championship in the Philippines (2025) is shaping up to be one of the most successful for the Balkan countries. Turkey has already secured a historic spot in the quarterfinals, Bulgaria also advanced after three wins in the group and an elimination victory over Portugal, and now Serbia will have a chance to join this prestigious duo. If the "Blues" break through against Iran, the Balkans will record unprecedented participation with three teams among the top eight on the planet.
Bulgaria – a sure and stable path
The Bulgarian national team showed maturity and consistency even in the group stage. The squad achieved three consecutive victories – against Germany, Slovenia, and Chile – and topped the group. This allowed our volleyball players to avoid tougher opponents in the Round of 16. There, Bulgaria met Portugal and prevailed without unnecessary drama, which returned our country to the elite of world championships after a 15-year hiatus.
Turkey – first historic qualification
Our neighbors from Turkey also successfully passed their Round of 16 match and can now boast their strongest participation in the history of world championships. This is proof of the progress of Turkish volleyball, which in recent years has invested heavily in young talents and the professional league.
Serbia – the last Balkan hope
Serbia started the championship hesitantly, losing their opening match to the Czech Republic. However, a complete turnaround followed – the "Blues" outplayed China and world giant Brazil, which earned them first place in the group. Attack leader Dražen Luburić already has 48 points and is the team's proven spearhead. In the evening match against Iran, the Serbs will have the opportunity to prove themselves as the Balkan team with the most experience at this level. In the two most recent editions of the Volleyball Nations League, the two teams exchanged 3-1 victories – Serbia last year, and Iran this year. Serbia has one medal in the history of world championships – a bronze from 2010. Iran finished sixth at the 2014 World Championship – their best performance to date.
Iran – fluctuations and survival in a thriller
Iran arrived in the Philippines with ambitions to go far, but in their very first match, they were shocked by Egypt. Nevertheless, the team managed to bounce back – they defeated Tunisia and, in the last match against host Philippines, played a true five-set thriller. The Iranians saved six match points from their opponent to win and secure a spot in the Round of 16. The team's leader – young outside hitter Porya Khanzadeh – is the top scorer with 55 points and impresses with his powerful serve.
Czech Republic and Tunisia – a clash of underdogs
Today's first Round of 16 match pits the Czech Republic against Tunisia – two teams few expected to advance this far. The Czech Republic caused a sensation by defeating Serbia in the group, and then also handled China. The team once again relies on opposite hitter Patrik Indra, who has already scored 49 points.
Tunisia, led by former Bulgaria coach Camillo Placì, recorded a historic qualification – their success over Egypt earned them first place in the group, and star Oussama Ben Romdhane is the hope for continuing the fairy tale.
The two teams last met in a Challenge Cup quarterfinal in 2022 in Seoul, Korea. The Czechs then won 3-1 sets.
If Tunisia manages to eliminate the Czech Republic in the Round of 16, it will be a historic success for the team. Their best achievement so far in world championships is 15th place in 2006. The Czechs have not reached the final four in 55 years.
Today's Round of 16 Schedule (Bulgarian time)
| Time | Match | City |
|---|---|---|
| 10:30 | Tunisia – Czech Republic | Pasay City |
| 15:00 | Serbia – Iran | Pasay City |
What does this mean for the Balkans?
If Serbia wins, three Balkan teams will be among the last eight – something that has never happened in the history of world championships. This will be proof that the region is one of the strongest centers of volleyball in the world – with traditions (Serbia), with a resurgence (Bulgaria), and with new ambitions (Turkey).
Such a performance will give even greater weight to Balkan volleyball, which is often viewed with respect, but has rarely been so widely represented in the final stages of the biggest forum.
photo:volleyballworld.com
