Romeo Sorrento was on the verge of a sensation and qualifying for the Italian Cup semi-finals, but dramatically lost to Tinet Prata with a 3:2 set score (25:22, 25:21, 24:26, 21:25, 15:10). Umek and Terpin became heroes for the hosts, but for the visitors, national team player Preslav Petkov played a strong match, finishing with 9 points, +1 efficiency, 4 blocks, and 63% attack efficiency. The middle blocker distinguished himself with important blocks and a stable presence in crucial moments.
Tinet took a 2:0 lead in sets after a better performance in attack and serve, but Sorrento showed character. In the third and fourth sets, Esposito's team raised their level in defense and blocking, with Petkov having a decisive contribution to tying the score at 2:2.
In the tie-break, the hosts demonstrated stronger nerves and better serving efficiency, which earned them a spot in the semi-finals, where they will face a rematch of last year's final against Brescia. For second-division newcomer Sorrento, the bitterness of a missed opportunity remains, but also the confidence that the team is competitive against the strongest with Bulgarian involvement at the center of the events.
