Nikolay Jeliazkov praises developing Bulgarians following victory over Belgium

Bulgaria men's volleyball coach Nikolay Jeliazkov has heaped praise on his young side following their opening victory against Belgium at the European Games.

Jeliazkov's charges had to do battle in an epic three-hour contest in Baku, but eventually won 3-2 thanks in part to an impressive showing from the coach's son Jani Jeliazkov, who notched 27 of Bulgaria's points across the fixture.

"Theoretically this is the second team, but I think this team has a lot of champions," Jeliazkov told reporters after the match.

"There is a lot of new and fresh blood on the team. They have a big future and I think we have a good team to go forward. I think our pool is the better one and I am happy because the young players get important experience."

Bulgaria will be back in action when they face Italy in Pool B on Tuesday.