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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Volleyball devider United States, Bulgaria topple rivals to reach quarters in FIVB Worlds

United States, Bulgaria topple rivals to reach quarters in FIVB Worlds

Published Sep 22, 2025 10:43 pm

At A Glance

  • The Americans bucked an opening-set stumble to turn back a feisty Slovenia side, 19-25, 25-22, 25-17, 25-20, while Bulgaria swept Portugal, 25-19, 25-23, 25-13.
United States inches closer to the crown. (Volleyball World)
United States inches closer to the crown. (Volleyball World)
Powerhouse United States and Bulgaria dispatched their rivals to set up a quarterfinals duel in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship at the Mall of Asia Arena on Monday, Sept. 22.
The Americans bucked an opening-set stumble to turn back a feisty Slovenia side, 19-25, 25-22, 25-17, 25-20, while Bulgaria swept Portugal, 25-19, 25-23, 25-13.
Playing in their 18th appearance in the tournament, the fan favorite United States overpowered the Slovenians on all departments particularly in the service area where they drilled in 12 aces -- seven coming from opposite spiker Gabriel Garcia.
The Americans also put up a rock-solid defense with 10 blocks.
Garcia paced the Americans by erupting for 25 points highlighted by 15 kills and four blocks, even as Ethan Champlin and Jordan Ewert conspired for 25 attacks to finish with 15 and 14 points, respectively.
United States’ victory overshadowed the resilient efforts of Toncek Stern and Nik Mujanovic, who conspired for 31 points in a losing cause for Slovenia.
Meanwhile, the Bulgarians were relentless on their attacks with Aleksandar Nikolov leading the charge with 19 points including 17 kills.
Four more teams battle for the last two quarters seat on Tuesday, Sept. 23 at the same venue, with Tunisia meeting Czechia at 3:30 p.m., and Serbia clashing with Iran at 8 p.m.
It can be recalled that Iran booked a spot into the next phase at the expense of beating Alas Pilipinas in their last pool stage match.
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