Press release

Sofia, Bulgaria, June 09, 2012 - Bulgaria overwhelmed France in a very difficult match 3-1

Bulgaria coach, Radostin Stoytchev: "We are very happy because of the victory. I knew we had to fight for this victory and we had to suffer it to win this match. The adrenaline and the tension were too big but I am happy because of the boys, the audience and the people in front of the television. Today is a really good day for the Bulgarian sport and the Bulgarian volleyball".

Bulgaria captain Vladimir Nikolov: "The victory is very important for us and it is a dream comes true because our team worked 2 years to achieve that. I am really happy and we won because we made less personal mistakes and because of the amazing block of Teodor Todorov".

France coach Philippe Blain: "We are tired and sad because of the loss but I am proud of the spirit of my boys. Unfortunately, we made more mistakes and that decided the match and Kaziyski had really good serves tonight".

France captain Pierre Pujol: "Bulgaria played really good, made a good match and I just wish them all the best in London. For us it is a big disappointment because we prepared this match for the last 4 years. Now it is important to work and continue to grow up as a team. Bulgaria played better in the key moments and managed better the free balls, and also we made some tactical mistakes".