CSKA Sofia B and PFK Montana played out a 1-1 draw in an International Club Friendly on July 1, 2026, at the Bulgarian Army Stadium's secondary pitch in Sofia. The match served as a key part of both teams' pre-season preparations, offering a competitive test ahead of their respective domestic campaigns.

Match Overview

The encounter, which kicked off at 16:00 local time, saw both sides field a mix of first-team regulars and fringe players. CSKA Sofia B, the reserve side of the Bulgarian powerhouse, looked to impose its technical style, while PFK Montana, a club competing in Bulgaria's second tier, relied on physicality and counter-attacking pace. The early exchanges were cautious, with both teams feeling out their opposition.

Key Moments

Montana broke the deadlock just before the half-hour mark. A swift transition caught the CSKA B defence off guard, and forward Martin Petkov slotted home from close range after a well-worked cross from the right flank. The goal gave the visitors a deserved lead, as they had been the more dangerous side in the opening period.

CSKA Sofia B responded well after the interval. Manager Stoyan Stoyanov made several tactical adjustments, pushing his full-backs higher up the pitch. The equalizer came in the 67th minute when a corner kick was only partially cleared, allowing midfielder Ivan Dimitrov to fire a volley into the bottom corner from the edge of the box. Both teams pushed for a winner in the final quarter, but a combination of wayward finishing and solid goalkeeping kept the score level at 1-1.

Standout Performers

• Ivan Dimitrov (CSKA Sofia B): Scored the equalizer and was a constant threat from midfield.
• Martin Petkov (PFK Montana): A lively presence up front, he took his goal well and troubled the home defence.
• Georgi Hristov (Montana goalkeeper): Made several crucial saves, especially in the second half, to preserve the draw.

What It Means for the Teams

For CSKA Sofia B, the draw provides a solid foundation as they integrate young talents into the senior setup. The match allowed the coaching staff to evaluate squad depth ahead of the upcoming season in the Bulgarian Second League. PFK Montana, meanwhile, will take confidence from their performance against a club with a strong academy reputation. The result highlights their ability to compete with higher-level opposition in pre-season friendlies.

The International Club Friendly format gives both clubs valuable minutes on the pitch, and the 1-1 scoreline reflects an evenly contested battle that served its purpose for fitness and tactical refinement.