Lokomotiv Plovdiv came from behind to secure a hard-fought 2-1 away win against Botev Vratsa in the Bulgarian First League on March 22, 2026. This victory at the Stadion Hristo Botev keeps Lokomotiv firmly in the hunt for European qualification. Against the run of play, the home side took a surprise lead just before halftime, sending their passionate supporters into raptures. Lokomotiv emerged for the second half with renewed purpose and leveled the score within ten minutes of the restart through a powerful header from a corner. The momentum had clearly shifted, and the winner arrived in the 70th minute after a defensive mix-up in the Vratsa box allowed a Lokomotiv attacker to poke the ball home. Botev Vratsa pushed for a late equalizer but found the visiting defense resolute. The result leaves Botev Vratsa dangerously close to the relegation places, while Lokomotiv Plovdiv consolidates its position in the top half of the table. The Lokomotiv manager praised his team's character to fight back on a difficult away ground. Key performers included Lokomotiv's midfield engine, who controlled the tempo after the break.