A repeat of the Supercup clash marked the first semi-final for the efbet Bulgarian Cup 2026 in "Arena SamElion", where Lokomotiv Avia (Plovdiv) and Neftochimic 2010 (Burgas) played another dramatic match. This time, the team from Burgas took revenge and prevailed with 3:1 sets.
First set – 25:27
The start was completely even, with both teams going point for point until the very end. Lokomotiv had their chances, but Neftochimic showed greater composure in the decisive rallies. A solo block by Stefan Chavdarov ended the set after a prolonged struggle.
Second set – 20:25
Neftochimic imposed a more stable attacking game and gradually built up a lead. Ricardo Junior was the main figure in offense, and a series of successful plays gave the Burgas team a comfortable advantage. Until the end, they controlled the situation and closed the set without serious hesitation.
Third set – 25:17
Lokomotiv reacted and showed their strongest set in the match. The Plovdiv team pressed with serve and block, took an early lead, and did not allow the opponent to catch up. Good offensive organization brought a convincing success and brought back the intrigue.
Fourth set – 21:25
The decisive set once again offered a contested battle until the middle. After that, Neftochimic increased the effectiveness of their block and made a run that proved decisive. With fewer errors at the end, the Burgas team closed the set and the match, winning 3:1.
Adi Osmanovic was the top scorer for the winners with an impressive 25 points (+16), to which he added 1 ace, 2 blocks, and an excellent 54% attack efficiency. Kaloyan Balabanov with 11 points and Ricardo Junior with 12 provided stable support, solidifying Neftochimic's superiority in key moments.
For Lokomotiv Avia, Julien Georgiev was the top scorer with 20 points, Ivaylo Damyanov added 10, and captain Todor Valchev finished with 14. Despite their efforts and a good third set, their contribution was not enough for more than one set won against the more stable Burgas team.
| Team Statistics | Lokomotiv Avia | Neftochimic 2010 |
|---|---|---|
| Total Points | 73 | 65 |
| Block Points | 12 | 7 |
| Attack Efficiency | 50% | 51% |
| Positive Reception | 60% | 55% |
| Aces | 6 | 4 |
| Points from Opponent Errors | 18 | 29 |
At first glance, Lokomotiv Avia excelled in a number of key indicators
more total points, better blocking, more stable positive reception, and serving dominance. Nevertheless, the decisive factor turned out to be the 29 points that Neftochimic scored after opponent errors
an indication of greater discipline and less risk in key moments. A minimal advantage in attack efficiency also tipped the scales in favor of the Burgas team, who compensated for their statistical deficits with more mature match management.
photo: Nikolay Varadinov
