Varna, Bulgaria, September 17, 2018 - Poland maintained top spot in Pool D of the 2018 Men’s FIVB World Championship after a 3-0 (25-21, 25-20, 25-22) win over Iran. With the loss the Asians were eliminated from contention for the first place in the final standings which will be decided in the last group match between Bulgaria and Poland on Tuesday evening.
Vital Heynen, head coach of Poland: “I am satisfied because Iran is a very tough opponent. We played good volleyball. We were perfect in the first two sets and in the third we were behind and then we managed to come back which was great as well. We felt the amazing support by the fans again and it was really helping us in the difficult moments. So we go with a good feeling and we are ready for Bulgaria. If Bulgaria wins, I will go and tell them “you are the best” but if we win, I will do the same with my players. This is the sport, this is volleyball!”
Bartosz Kurek, player of Poland: “It is always difficult for us to play against Iran because they have so many skillful players. This 3-0 win is important for our self-confidence not only for the standings but also for us to believe that we are here to achieve something great. I hope our fans will be back in the hall tomorrow for our last match against the hosts. Bulgaria has great supporters as well and I am sure all of them together will create a spectacular atmosphere. I hope that the level of volleyball will be also very high and we will come out like today.”
Igor Kolakovic, head coach of Iran: “It was a tough game for both the teams, but Poland was better than us and I can only congratulate them for the win. The difference tonight was the serve – they had more success and took many more risks. Now we have to forget the loss and to focuse on our next match against Finland. They will play in front of thousands of their supporters which will give them huge confidence. We will go for the win at all cost.”
Mohammadjavad Manavinezhad, player of Iran: “It is normal to be disappointed after a match like this but we do not have to forget that we have another game tomorrow. We face Finland, a team who keeps on improving and we can expect everything from them. That is why volleyball is interesting. Finns have big support from their fans and it is going to be their huge advantage.”