The young outside hitter of Neftochimic Burgas, Kaloyan Balabanov, approaches tomorrow's semi-final against Lokomotiv (Avia) Plovdiv with confidence and ambition.

🟡Start of the season and motivation for a trophy

Balabanov stated that it's wonderful to start the season with a chance for a trophy, but he is aware that the tournament will be extremely difficult because all four participating teams are very high-class and evenly matched.

We will give our best to win. We are all motivated – there are no easy matches at this level.

⚡ The clash with Lokomotiv and the presence of Matey Kaziyski

The Neftochimic player admitted that the expectations and euphoria around Lokomotiv are fully justified due to the presence of Matey Kaziyski, but for him and his teammates, this is more of a challenge than a concern.

Rather, I feel neither respect nor excessive ambition – I just want us to play good volleyball. To stand up against a strong team.

🧠 The influence of the national team and working with Francesco Caddeo

Balabanov pointed out that Bulgaria's silver medal from the World Championship has inspired everyone, especially because head coach Francesco Caddeo is part of the national team's staff.

Surely this is an incentive for all of us. Our coach brought us some of the ideas and working methods from the national team.

The player admitted that the start of preparation was difficult, as Caddeo was absent due to the World Championship and the team trained with the assistant coach, but after the Italian's return, the work rhythm and organization noticeably improved.

🏐 Realistic mindset and expectations

Balabanov expressed realism regarding tomorrow's match:

It's difficult to show our full potential in the first official match, but we are ready to fight. There will be tension, but I believe it will be a wonderful celebration for volleyball and for the fans.

Kaloyan Balabanov enters the semi-final against Lokomotiv with confidence, realism, and respect for the opponent. For him, the Supercup is an opportunity to start the season with inspiration and new energy, brought both by the success of the national team and by working with Caddeo. The young outside hitter believes that Neftochimic will show fighting spirit and character, and the match will turn into a true volleyball celebration.