CSKA's team started with a win in the efbet Super Volley playoffs, after defeating Beroe 2016 with 3:1 (25:17, 17:25, 27:25, 25:17) in the first 1/4-final match. Thus, "the Reds" took a 1-0 lead in the series and are one win away from the semifinals. The second match is on Tuesday in Stara Zagora.
First Set
CSKA started strong and took the lead early, exerting pressure from serve and counter-attack. Beroe managed to equalize briefly, but the hosts quickly regained control. By the end, "the Reds" dominated and convincingly closed the set at 25:17.
Second Set
Beroe started excellently and took a comfortable lead after strong serves and blocks. CSKA tried to reduce the deficit, but the visitors maintained their rhythm. The team from Stara Zagora controlled the game and equalized after 25:17.
Third Set
The game went point for point, with both teams exchanging the lead. Beroe even took the lead in the middle of the set, but CSKA responded with a good run. In the crucial moments, "the Reds" showed more stability and snatched the set with 27:25.
Fourth Set
CSKA established dominance from the start through strong serving and organized attack. Beroe reduced the deficit but couldn't maintain the pace. In the end, the hosts were decisive and closed the match after 25:17.
| Statistic | CSKA | Beroe |
|---|---|---|
| Blocks | 6 | 5 |
| Attack (%) | 55% | 47% |
| Points from Attack | 53 | 44 |
| Positive Reception | 56% | 41% |
| Aces | 7 | 7 |
| Service Errors | 19 | 15 |
| Points from Opponent Errors | 28 | 28 |
The figures clearly show CSKA's advantage in attack and reception, which proved crucial for the final success. Despite the equality in aces and points from errors, "the Reds" compensated with higher efficiency in attack. Beroe had its strong moments, but the lower attack percentage proved to be a decisive factor.
For CSKA, Stoyko Nenchev finished with 13 points, Spas Bayrev also scored 13 points, Nikolay Penchev added 12 points, and Reza Beik scored 10.
For Beroe, Velizar Chernokozhev was the top scorer with 18 points, Jesse DeLancey finished with 14 points, and Martin Mechkavov added 11.
The match was also watched by national team player Iliya Petkov, who was accompanied by his girlfriend. The center maintains his form with the Levski team.
Photos: Nikolay Varadinov
