Sportist Svoge recorded an impressive 2-0 win over Pirin Blagoevgrad in the Bulgarian Second League, continuing their recent upturn in form. The match, held at the Stadion Chavdar Tsvetkov, saw a committed home side outplay their promotion rivals with a blend of defensive solidity and clinical finishing.

Sportist opened the scoring in the 24th minute. A long ball over the top caught Pirin's defense out of shape, and the striker, using his strength, held off a defender before slotting the ball under the advancing goalkeeper. The goal settled Sportist, who then took control of midfield. Pirin struggled to impose themselves, often resorting to long-range efforts that failed to trouble the home goalkeeper.

Second half control and second goal

Pirin Blagoevgrad pushed for an equalizer after the break, but Sportist's defensive unit was well-organized. The home side doubled their lead in the 71st minute from a well-executed set piece. A free kick from the left was whipped into the six-yard box, where a defender rose highest to head home. Pirin's frustrations boiled over, earning them three yellow cards in the final quarter of the match as Sportist comfortably saw out the win.

Impact on the Vtora Liga table

• Sportist Svoge now sit just three points behind the playoff spots, building momentum for a late push.
• Pirin Blagoevgrad's promotion hopes take a setback, as they remain in the top six but lose valuable ground to the leaders.

The clean sheet was Sportist Svoge's fourth in six matches, highlighting their defensive improvement under the current management. Pirin will need to regroup quickly to stay in contention for the top places in the Bulgarian Vtora Liga.