As the Volleyball Nations League 2025 enters its pulsating final stages, the penultimate day of the Preliminary Phase delivered a volley of high-stakes drama and unexpected outcomes. From a stunning upset in Gdańsk, Poland, to a crucial battle for survival in Ljubljana, Slovenia, Saturday`s matches showcased the unpredictable essence of elite international volleyball.
The Gdańsk Upset: Bulgaria Topples World No. 1 Poland
Few would have placed their last penny on Bulgaria when they stepped onto the court against FIVB World Ranking leaders Poland in Gdańsk. Yet, in an epic five-set thriller that kept a sold-out Ergo Arena on the edge of their seats, the Bulgarian squad delivered a performance for the ages, securing a dramatic 3-2 (17-25, 25-22, 25-23, 27-29, 15-11) victory.
This wasn`t just any win; it was Bulgaria`s first triumph over Poland since 2017, effectively snapping a ten-match losing streak against their formidable rivals. The decisive blow came from an unlikely hero: substitute setter Simeon Nikolov, who coolly fired the game-winning ace in the fifth set, cementing a victory that felt almost cinematic in its execution.
The Nikolov brothers were the architects of this improbable success. While Simeon provided the final flourish, outside hitter Aleksandar Nikolov was a consistent force throughout, leading the team with a remarkable 24 points, comprising 19 kills, three blocks, and two aces. Teammates Martin Atanasov and Venislav Antov also contributed significantly, each adding 13 points to the Bulgarian tally.
The win, and the two points it accrued, kept Bulgaria`s VNL Finals aspirations very much alive. Despite currently sitting in ninth place with six wins and 17 points, they remain within striking distance of sixth-placed Cuba (six wins, 19 points) and seventh-placed Ukraine (six wins, 18 points). Their final match against Iran on Sunday will be a do-or-die affair.
For Poland, despite the setback, their position remains strong. They sit comfortably in third place with seven wins and 21 points, indicating their overall consistency in the tournament. Key players like middle blocker Mateusz Poręba (15 points), outside hitter Bartosz Bednorz (12 points), opposite Bartlomiej Bołądź (11 points), and the ever-dangerous Wilfredo Leon (ten points) showcased their talent, even in defeat.
The Ljubljana Lifeline: Serbia Secures VNL Future
Miles away in Ljubljana, Slovenia, another critical narrative unfolded as Serbia faced Canada in a match laden with significant implications for the 2026 VNL season. The air was thick with anticipation, as the outcome would determine which team would avoid relegation from the prestigious league.
Serbia, fresh off a crucial victory on Friday, maintained their momentum, defeating Canada 3-1 (15-25, 25-22, 25-18, 25-22). This second consecutive win brought their tournament tally to three victories and nine points, elevating them to 15th place in the standings. More importantly, it solidified their place in the VNL for 2026, relegating the Netherlands (18th place, one victory, five points) from the competition.
Star opposite Drazen Luburić once again spearheaded Serbia`s attack, delivering a stellar 20-point performance for the second day running, with 18 kills and two aces against the Canadians. Captain Marko Ivovič also played a pivotal role, contributing 14 points, all through powerful kills. Setter Nikola Jovović expressed the team`s relief and renewed spirit: “Keeping our spot in the VNL was the main thing for us this week and it’s good to know that we accomplished it.”
For Canada, outside hitters Brodie Hofer (15 points, 14 kills, one block) and Isaac Heslinga (14 points, 12 kills, two blocks) led their efforts, but it wasn`t enough to overcome the determined Serbian side.
The Volleyball Nations League 2025 continues to prove why it`s a premier competition, with every match carrying tangible consequences. As teams head into the final day of the Preliminary Phase, the fight for Finals spots and the battle to secure elite status promise even more exhilarating volleyball.
