KARACHI: Pakistan’s aspirations to rub shoulders with the best volleyball teams in the world ended with a 3-0 loss to Egypt, their second successive loss in the  International Volleyball Federation (IVFB) wildcard qualifiers in Sofia, Bulgaria.

The four-nation qualifying event was a first for Pakistan and included hosts Bulgaria, France and Egypt.

Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) President Muhammad Yaqoob was satisfied despite his team losing all of its matches: 3-0 against Bulgaria and 3-1 to France.

“It was the first time we competed against the Europeans,” PVF President Muhammad Yaqoob said.

“We never expected the team to win and it has made history by just participating in the qualifiers. Egypt and Europe teams are more experienced than us — they have better coaches and facilities.

“But I am satisfied with my team. We accepted the initiation from the IVFB because it was a good gesture and they considered us worthy.”

Bulgaria and France, have qualified for the Olympics and join Australia, Serbia, Germany, Britain, Russia, Poland, Brazil, Tunisia, United States, Italy and Argentina.