Busto Arsizio, Italy, September 25, 2011 - In tonight's last match in Busto Arsizio, Spain overpowered Bulgaria 3-0 (25-17, 25-18, 25-21) to take the last Pool D spot for the second round. Bulgaria has to pack bags and go home.

Both teams were well organized and showed some spectacular offensive play in the beginning of the first set. There was nothing to separate the two teams at that stage of the match. Spain then began to play with more determination, giving the Iberians a four-point lead at the second technical timeout. Bulgaria's defense was now under permanent pressure. Dimo Tonev called two timeouts within a few minutes, but it didn't help. Milagros Collar hammered another blistering winner down to make it 22-14. A Bulgarian offensive mistake eventually offered Spain the opening set 25-17.

Bulgaria did their best to avoid an early return journey, but were not strong enough against a very well organized team from Spain. Things didn't change in the second and third set with Spain booking their first and probably most important win here in Italy. On the other hand, Bulgaria finished their adventure at EuroVolley 2011. Spain will face Turkey in the playoffs in Monza starting on Tuesday September 27, 2011.

Spain coach Gido Vermeulen: “I am proud of how our girls played, we served very well. Today we were very strong in keeping the game plan under control.”  

Spain captain Amaranta Fernandez: “This was our match, I am proud of the team. We were very concentrated and this is the best way to play.”

Bulgaria coach Dimo Tonev: ”I would like to congratulate Spain for the victory.  For both teams it was a very important match. Spain played better. I hope this experience will help us for further tournaments.”

Bulgaria captain Strashimira Filipova: “I am really sad, we had our chance to pass this round but Spain deserved to win. I wish them good luck for the next matches of the tournament”.