Varna, Bulgaria, September 9, 2018 - Bulgaria defeated Finland in the opening match in Pool D of the 2018 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Volleyball Championship.
Plamen Konstantinov, coach of Bulgaria: "It was the best possible start. We got maximum from the match as a result but we could perform better in our next games especially on the net. The team of Finland did not risk a lot. It looked like they prefer a long rallies but we managed to get most of them and to win at the end."
Nikolay Uchikov, player of Bulgaria: "It was not an easy game for sure. We managed to keep our tactical discipline till the end of the game and it was the key for the final result. We are happy that we started on the best possible way with a straight-set win. It is a great pleasure to play at home in front of all these amazing spectators."
Tuomas Sammelvuo, coach of Finland: "We played, we fought, for example Bulgaria managed to block us only once, but at the end we lost. Our opponent was better in serving and reception and it was the main key point of the game. We will prepare normally for our next game. We will pay attention to our physical shape. We have enough time to get ready for the following games."
Eemi Tervaportti, captain of Finland: "First of all Bulgaria was the big favorite today. We fought well. We lost 0-3 but it was an equal game I think. Few side-outs and some good serves changed the match. We expect Cuba as our next opponent. It is also a very good team. Now we have 4 days to prepare and I think we will be ready and perform on a better way."