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 Match info | Description
Bulgaria's Final Round dreams shattered as Brazil clinch win

Despite a passionate display from the crowd it was not enough for Bulgaria to take the win as their 2010 FIVB World League campaign came to an end on Friday
Varna, Bulgaria, July 9, 2010 - Brazil denied Bulgaria a place at the 2010 FIVB World League Final Round on Friday night as the hosts went down 3-2 (25-21, 24-26, 29-31, 25-22, 15-12) in Varna.

Emotions ran high in the Bulgarian Volleyball capital as President of Bulgaria Mr. Georgi Parvanov, Sports Minister Mr. Svilen Neykov, Head of the Church to be His Holyness Mitropolit Kiril, Mayor of Varna Kiril Yordanov, were attended alongside thousands of hopeful fans.

Brazil began with confidence and piled the pressure onto Bulgaria in the first set. Even without main setter Bruno, Brazil distributed the play through many of their attackers. This time Vissotto wasn't the main weapon of choice from Brazil coach Bernardo Rezende's team as the returning Giba as well as Rodrigao, Dos Santos and Murilo helped see out the opening set.

Bulgaria made many unforced errors at the beginning of the second set before they found their rhythm to pull a set back to remain in contention for a place at the next stage of the World League.

Bulgaria gained a quick lead in the third before Rezende brought on Bruno. However despite the change Bulgaria kept their momentum up to keep the lead. But Brazil showed passion as they battled to regain the lead and take the set.

Brazil's Giba found his rhythm in the third set and the Brazilian captain helped carry his teammates to a quick lead. However Sokolov helped fight back for the hosts as they nearly took the lead for the first time in the game. But Brazil used their experience to take a 2-1 lead as both coaches were shown yellow cards in the fiery affair.

The tie-break was a heart-stopping affair as the match continued point-for-point. However Murilo's serve helped the visitors take a four point advantage which they held onto until the end, leaving the Bulgarian side and their fans heartbroken as they crashed out of the tournament.

Brazil will continue their competition in Cordoba, Argentina from July 21-25 as they look to defend their crowd.
  

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