Cuba defeated Bulgaria 3-1 in their opening game of the 20th men's volleyball World League on Friday.

The opening set was tight at the beginning with two teams exchanging lead. Cuba went ahead 18-13 thanks to the good performance of Captain Roberlandy Simon and Rolando Cepeda.

The host team seemed full of confidence, but Bulgaria improved and overtook Cuba to gain first set 26-24, inspired by a great work of Matey Kaziyski, who was unstoppable for Cuban blockers.

Both teams did their best to hold the lead and struggle to look for the second set win. Supported by its noisy crowd, the inexperienced Cuba handed the pressure over their rivals in the last points. Tying the match at 27-27, Simon surged again to save his team through a spectacular ace. Then Cuba claimed the victory 29-27, while its fans became crazy.

The third set was very different and Cuba led all the way from the beginning. Cuban spikes and services overwhelmed Bulgarians, who didn't find how to respond the deluge of the strong attacks. Cuba got an easy win at 25-18.

The fourth set was too similar to the third one. Cuba took an early advantage and held it until the end. Bulgaria tried to bounce back many times in a huge effort, but it wasn't enough. Cuba handled its nerves and stayed playing at a good level in decisive points, closing out 25-22.

(Xinhua News Agency June 13, 2009)