CSKA 1948 Sofia Edge Past Botev Vratsa in Hard-Fought Contest

CSKA 1948 Sofia secured a narrow 2–1 victory over Botev Vratsa in the Bulgarian First League on 26 July 2026. The match, played at the Stadion Balgarska Armia, began at midnight local time and saw the home side battle back from an early setback to claim all three points.

Match Story

Botev Vratsa stunned the home crowd by taking the lead in the 8th minute. A swift counter-attack ended with winger Petar Hristov cutting inside and curling a shot into the far corner. CSKA 1948 responded well, dominating possession but struggling to break down a disciplined Botev defence.

The equaliser arrived in the 34th minute when striker Ivan Kokonov headed home from a corner. The goal lifted the home side, and they pushed for a second before half-time but were denied by the woodwork. The winning goal came in the 67th minute: a clever through ball from midfielder Vasil Shopov set Kokonov free, and he slotted past the goalkeeper to complete his brace.

Second Half Resistance

Botev Vratsa pushed for an equaliser in the final 20 minutes, but CSKA 1948's defence held firm. Goalkeeper Georgi Kitanov made a crucial save in the 82nd minute to preserve the lead. The visitors were reduced to ten men in stoppage time after a second yellow card for defender Kristiyan Malinov.

Standing Impact

This win lifts CSKA 1948 Sofia into the top four of the Bulgarian First League, keeping pace with the early leaders. Botev Vratsa, despite a spirited performance, remain in the lower half and will look to bounce back in their next fixture.

Player Ratings:

• Ivan Kokonov (CSKA 1948) – 8/10: Two well-taken goals, a constant threat.
• Petar Hristov (Botev Vratsa) – 7/10: Scored a fine goal and was lively throughout.
• Georgi Kitanov (CSKA 1948) – 7/10: Made several important saves to secure the win.