CSKA Sofia II and Yantra Gabrovo played out a thrilling 3-3 draw in the Bulgarian Vtora Liga on Friday night, with the teams sharing six goals in a match that swung one way and then the other. CSKA Sofia II looked in control early, but Yantra Gabrovo produced a determined comeback and earned a point with a late equaliser in a highly entertaining encounter.

Match overview

The home side started at a high tempo and took the lead in the 12th minute when Borislav Nikolov found space on the edge of the box and curled a fine effort into the far corner. CSKA Sofia II doubled their advantage in the 25th minute through Viktor Atanasov, who finished confidently after a quick passing move opened up the Yantra defence.

At 2-0, the match appeared to be moving toward a comfortable home win. But Yantra Gabrovo responded well and pulled a goal back in the 38th minute when Todor Kolev converted from close range after a goalmouth scramble. That goal changed the mood and gave the visitors hope going into half-time.

Key moments and second half

Yantra equalised in the 55th minute. A deep cross from the right was headed back across goal, and Milen Petrov was first to react, poking the ball past the goalkeeper to make it 2-2. The away side’s supporters sensed a complete turnaround, and for a period Yantra looked the more likely team to score next.

CSKA Sofia II regained the lead in the 72nd minute when Borislav Nikolov scored his second of the night, finishing a sweeping counterattack with a low drive. It seemed the home side had weathered the storm, but Yantra refused to give up. In the 89th minute, Todor Kolev struck again, arriving at the back post to turn in a low cross and spark wild celebrations among the visitors.

Tactical story

CSKA Sofia II’s young side played with energy and ambition, pressing high and looking to move the ball quickly through the thirds. Their early dominance came from aggressive pressing and quick combinations, but they struggled to maintain control once Yantra adjusted their shape and began winning the midfield battle.

Yantra Gabrovo showed excellent character. After going two goals down, they simplified their play, got the ball forward more directly, and targeted the spaces behind CSKA’s advanced full-backs. Their set-piece delivery also caused problems, and the late equaliser was a reward for their persistence.

Standout performers and league impact

Borislav Nikolov was the standout for CSKA Sofia II with two well-taken goals, while Viktor Atanasov impressed with his movement and link-up play. For Yantra, Todor Kolev’s brace and Milen Petrov’s equalising contribution were crucial in securing a point.

The draw leaves both teams with mixed emotions. CSKA Sofia II will be frustrated at letting a two-goal lead slip and conceding so late, while Yantra Gabrovo will take confidence from their fighting spirit. In the Bulgarian Vtora Liga, where consistency is often the difference between promotion contention and mid-table, this was a reminder that no lead is safe until the final whistle.

The six-goal spectacle also underlined the attacking potential of both sides, but both coaches will likely focus on defensive improvements in the coming weeks. For neutrals, it was a compelling contest; for the teams, it was a night of lessons and missed opportunities.