The Monza team, where Bulgarian national players Martin Atanasov and Zhasmin Velichkov play, registered their sixth loss since the start of the season and is settling deeper into the relegation zone. This time the defeat came during their visit to ambitious Verona 0:3 (25:22, 25:19, 25:18). Real intrigue was only present in the first set, after which the hosts took complete control.

Verona showed more power and consistency, and Keita and Darlan Souza once again shone above all, finishing the match with 17 points each. Sani supplemented the hosts' attack with another 13, and the trio practically decided the match.

In Monza's ranks, Martin Atanasov was the most effective with 9 points, while Rohrs added 6. Zhasmin Velichkov made a brief appearance in the second set but failed to score. The team never found a consistent rhythm, conceded easy points, and was unable to counter Verona's aggressive reception and attack.

With only one win since the start of the season, Monza is now in 11th place, second to last, and is dangerously close to Grottazzolina at the bottom of the standings. The pressure is growing because in every subsequent match, the value of points becomes increasingly higher.

And the upcoming challenge will not be easy at all Atanasov, Velichkov, and their teammates will host a strong Piacenza, one of the most in-form teams in recent weeks. A tough duel awaits them, which could prove crucial as to whether Monza will remain in the fight for survival or sink even further.