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Miroslav Zhivkov: "Playing against the champion is a challenge - we will give 100% of ourselves"

Николай Варадинов

Николай Варадинов

October 17, 2025 at 18:02

Miroslav Zhivkov: "Playing against the champion is a challenge - we will give 100% of ourselves"

Beroe Stara Zagora head coach Miroslav Zhivkov anticipates the upcoming Bulgarian Supercup semi-final against Levski with respect and confidence.
Zhivkov began by evaluating the Bulgarian Supercup, describing it as "an exceptionally attractive tournament with high volleyball value." According to him, all four teams are strong, with good coaching staffs, which guarantees competitive, evenly matched games.

"Playing against the champion is always a challenge – that's precisely the essence of sports."

🧩 Changes and a new team structure

The coach emphasized that Beroe is also in a building process, similar to Levski. Over the summer, the team underwent significant personnel changes – several key players, including outside hitters and a setter, moved to Italian clubs.
Three new additions have been brought in to replace them – among them Martin Mechkarov and Plamen Shekerdzhiev, whom Zhivkov described as "volleyball players with exceptional qualities."
Nevertheless, he admitted that integrating them into Beroe's style requires time and adaptation, as not every player easily fits into the existing structure.

🔍 Beroe's philosophy and style

Zhivkov explained that the club is building a modern style of play, based on good organization and match management. The goal is continuous improvement – both individually and at a team level.

"We try to be a team that doesn't shy away from hard work. We strive for every match to make us better."

🏐 Preparation and a realistic mindset

The coach admitted that Beroe is not 100% ready for peak form, but this is natural at this stage of the season.

"The way I want Beroe to play has not yet been achieved. But we will give 100% of ourselves to play as well as possible."

🙌 The audience and atmosphere

Zhivkov believes that the presence of the audience will raise the level of play and make the match even more emotional.

"The audience can only elevate volleyball by several more levels – they are part of the spectacle."


Beroe enters the semi-final against Levski with realism and composure, but also with a clear ambition to showcase high-quality and modern volleyball. The team is in a restructuring process, but under Miroslav Zhivkov's leadership, it relies on discipline, young talents, and bold play, promising a high-value match for the spectators.