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Italian Cup: "Bulgarian" derby will determine the last participant in the quarterfinals

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VolleyWeek

December 11, 2025 at 13:07

Italian Cup: "Bulgarian" derby will determine the last participant in the quarterfinals

The final round of the autumn part of the Italian SuperLega promises real drama, and the focus of attention for Bulgarian fans naturally falls onVero Volley MonzaandYuasa Battery Grottazzolina– the two teams with a strong Bulgarian presence.

Monza, whereMartin AtanasovandZhasmin Velichkovplay, enters the decisive phase of the competition in eighth position and holds its fate in its own hands.
Grottazzolina, led byIliya PetkovandGeorgi Tatarov, is in last place in the standings without a win and will play freely in pursuit of their first success in the championship.

For both teams, this final round is more than just a match – it's a direct clash of ambitions, Bulgarian character, and a fight, especially for Monza, for a place among the best in the Del Monte Coppa Italia.

Situation before the final round

The top 7 already seems solidified, but eighth place – the last one guaranteeing participation in the Cup – will be decided between Monza and Padova, where Boris Nachev plays, with Grottazzolina playing a key role in this scenario. They themselves have no chance to enter the top 8, but they can disrupt Monza's plans and help Padova.

Monza iscertain in the top 8 with a win.
Padova also needsa win, but also a loss for Monza, and with equal points has a better coefficient.

Standings after 10/11 rounds

PositionTeamPointsMatchesRecord
1.Rana Verona26109V–1L
2.Sir Susa Scai Perugia26119V–2L
3.Itas Trentino24108V–2L
4.Gas Sales Bluenergy Piacenza21107V–3L
5.Valsa Group Modena19106W–4L
6.Cucine Lube Civitanova17105W–5L
7.Allianz Milano16106W–4L
8.Vero Volley Monza10103W–7L
9.MA Acqua S.Bernardo Cuneo9112W–9L
10.Sonepar Padova8103W–7L
11.Cisterna Volley6103W–7L
12.Yuasa Battery Grottazzolina1100W–10L


The table highlights how fragile Monza's lead is – only two points above Padova. Grottazzolina, despite being in last place, is a team that loses many matches after contested sets.