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Nayden Naydenov: Our team defeated Neftochimic, and Matey is an inspiration to everyone.

Николай Варадинов

Николай Варадинов

October 18, 2025 at 23:05

Nayden Naydenov: Our team defeated Neftochimic, and Matey is an inspiration to everyone.

After the semifinal with Neftochimik, Lokomotiv Avia's head coach Nayden Naydenov expressed satisfaction with his team's overall performance. He emphasized that the victory was a result of collective efforts, not individual performances: "I don't single out anyone when we play like this, because to win, everyone must contribute. The team played very, very well – in absolutely all positions," commented the coach.

Naydenov shared that Matey Kaziyski's inclusion has a strong psychological effect on the team, but stressed that he doesn't want everything to focus on him. "Matey is an incentive and help for the boys, but the idea was for everyone to feel equal and play as a true collective. The setter performed excellently, used all attackers, and everyone gave their maximum," he stated.

According to him, Kaziyski's presence inspires his teammates and raises the level of work within the team: "Even in a short time, he changes many things – with his behavior, with the way he trains, with the fact that he fit in as a normal person, not a star. This is a unique quality and a great example for everyone else."

Naydenov also thanked the audience, who once again filled the hall: "It was full, and there were many neutral fans. It is precisely moments like these – the silver medals from the Men's World Championship and Matey's return – that make people love volleyball even more and come to the halls."

Regarding the upcoming final against Levski, Naydenov warned that the opponent is tough and well-organized: "We must play exactly as we did today – with strong serves and a stable block. Levski has a well-established system, and their new additions fit in well. It won't be easy, but if we show the same game, we can reach the trophy."