The captain of the Bulgarian national team and middle blocker for Bogdanka Lublin, Alex Grozdanov, spoke toPlusLiga.pland outlined several key highlights – from Bulgaria's historic silver medal at the World Championship in the Philippines to the club's difficult start to the season.
The indescribable euphoria in Bulgaria after the silver medal in the Philippines
Grozdanov emphasizes that the atmosphere after the national team's return from the World Championship was unique. According to him, Sofia had never seen anything like it – about 6-7 thousand people welcomed the "Lions" in the city center, with the joy being "pure, genuine, and heartfelt".
The Bulgarian captain adds that interest in the upcoming European Championship is immense – around 11,000 tickets were sold within a few days. For him personally, the tournament is even more special because the home matches will be played in his native Sofia.
Minimal rest and a new season – the price of the captain's role
After the Philippines, Grozdanov had only 7-8 free days, most of which were spent traveling or on official engagements. He saw his family for only two days, but he doesn't complain – he accepts it as part of his profession and the responsibility of being the national team captain.
Bogdanka Lublin's difficult start in PlusLiga
The missed victory over Resovia
Grozdanov also commented on the club's recent matches, including the loss to Asseco Resovia, even though Lublin had led 2:0. The team played strongly at the start – dominating on serve and block – but in crucial moments, Resovia capitalized better on the situations.
He admits that he personally could have been more effective in blocking against Dmytro Denysenko and Karol Butryn, whose attacks made the difference.
Analysis of the game – strong elements, but lapses in easy situations
Bogdanka Lublin made 15 blocks and 9 aces, including 5 by Finian McCarthy. However, this proved insufficient. Grozdanov emphasizes that several elementary situations – hesitation over who should take the ball or how to play it – cost them valuable points.
The difficult schedule also has an impact – two five-set and one four-set match show that the team is fighting but is facing a series of strong opponents.
The Champions League – the big step forward
Lublin is preparing for its debut in the Champions League group stage, which Grozdanov describes as "the next important step." He believes in the strong atmosphere in home matches and the team's potential.
Working with Stéphane Antiga and the anticipated rematch against Jastrzębski Węgiel
Grozdanov praises head coach Stéphane Antiga's approach and emphasizes that with two new outside hitters, time is needed for adjustments, but his confidence remains high.
A tough away game against Jastrzębski Węgiel is coming up – an opponent with double motivation for revenge after the Super Cup loss and last year's semifinal.
Grozdanov concludes with a clear message: as champion, Bogdanka Lublin is the team everyone wants to beat – and this sets the bar even higher.
