Bulgaria’s Girls’ U19 national team clinched their first world championship, defeating defending champions USA 3-1 in the final match of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U19 World Championship held in Osijek, Croatia.
After dropping the first set 21-25, the Bulgarian squad responded with grit and heart, dominating the next three sets (25-16, 25-17, 29-27) to seal a historic win — one that marks Bulgaria’s first world title in women’s volleyball at any age group.
Coach Petrov: “This Team Never Quits”
Head coach Atanas Petrov, who had vowed his team would challenge the champions, was full of praise after the victory:
“We showed what’s possible when you fight together. This isn’t just a win — it’s a message that Bulgaria is here to stay on the world stage.”
Key Players of the Final:
- Alexandra Kitipova delivered 12 powerful spikes and 2 aces.
- Darina Naneva, a force in the middle, scored 14 points through attacks and blocks.
- Edna Todorova and Kalina Veneva both added 10 points, helping tip the momentum.
- For the USA, Suliane Davis stood out with 17 points, while Macaria Spears followed with 12.
The Americans struggled with errors and couldn’t match Bulgaria’s energy and consistency late in the game.
Poland Claims Bronze Over Türkiye
Earlier, Poland swept Türkiye 3-0 (25-19, 25-21, 25-20) in the bronze medal match.
- Natasza Ornoch led with 16 points.
- Liliana Wojcik added 15 in a solid team effort.
- Aylin Uysalcan was Türkiye’s top scorer, contributing 13 points on her birthday.
Polish captain Nadia Siuda shared heartfelt words after the win:
“This bronze means everything to us. We fought hard and were lifted by our fans every step of the way.”
2025 U19 Dream Team:
| Award | Player | Country |
|---|---|---|
| MVP & Best Setter | Dimana Ivanova | Bulgaria |
| Best Outside Hitters | Kalina Veneva | Bulgaria |
| Macaria Spears | USA | |
| Best Middle Blockers | Denitsa Angelova | Bulgaria |
| Maja Koput | Poland | |
| Best Opposite | Henley Anderson | USA |
| Best Libero | Viktoria Ninova | Bulgaria |