Filip Madzhunkov: We didn’t come here just to lose — North Macedonia beats Israel
Filip Madzhunkov said the team entered the last match with special motivation and left the championship with a dignified victory.
North Macedonia closed its EuroVolley 26 campaign with a convincing victory over Israel on 16 September 2026, taking the match in three sets and leaving the tournament on a high note.
Madzhunkov: team entered the match with special motivation
After the final whistle, middle blocker Filip Madzhunkov said the squad approached the last game with a different kind of inspiration and a clear aim to win.
“This was a match in which we were a bit differently inspired. We certainly didn't come here to lose 3:0. We came to win. Maybe we didn't manage to qualify for the next phase, but we didn't give up. We played the last match bravely, with dignity, and ended this European Championship in a nice way, some even their careers,” Madzhunkov said.
The victory — secured in straight sets — provided a morale boost for the team and a dignified finish to the continental event, even though advancement to the knockout rounds proved out of reach.
Players and staff highlighted the importance of closing the tournament on a positive note, and the performance in the final match was described as determined and competitive. For several squad members, the tournament marked a significant moment in their international careers.
Photo: CEV.eu
