Levski Sofia 4-0 Borac Banja Luka: Blues Storm to Champions League Qualifying Victory

Levski Sofia began their UEFA Champions League qualifying campaign in emphatic fashion on July 15, 2026, dismantling Borac Banja Luka 4-0 at the Georgi Asparuhov Stadium. The Bulgarian giants produced a dominant display from the first whistle, leaving the Bosnian side with a mountain to climb ahead of the second leg.

The match, played on a warm summer evening in Sofia, saw Levski control possession and create a host of chances. The home side’s aggressive pressing and quick transitions proved too much for Borac, who struggled to gain a foothold in the contest.

First-Half Dominance

Levski opened the scoring inside 15 minutes when a well-worked corner found the head of central defender Viktor Popov, who powered the ball past Borac goalkeeper Mladen Živković. The goal settled any early nerves and set the tone for the remainder of the half.

Just before the half-hour mark, Levski doubled their lead through a stunning long-range strike from midfielder Kiril Vasilev, who curled the ball into the top corner from 25 yards. Borac barely threatened the Levski goal, with their only shot of the first half sailing harmlessly over the bar.

Second-Half Ruthlessness

The second half followed a similar script. Levski continued to press forward, and in the 58th minute, winger Martin Petkov made it 3-0 with a composed finish after a sweeping counter-attack. Borac’s discipline crumbled, leading to a red card for Milan Stanić in the 73rd minute for a reckless tackle.

Levski capitalised on the numerical advantage immediately, with substitute Ivan Georgiev heading home a cross to make it 4-0 just five minutes later. The home side could have added more, but the final scoreline already reflected a comprehensive performance.

Standout Performers

• Kiril Vasilev (Levski Sofia) – Scored a sensational goal and dictated the tempo from midfield.
• Viktor Popov (Levski Sofia) – Dominant at both ends, scoring the opener and keeping Borac’s forwards quiet.
• Ivan Georgiev (Levski Sofia) – Came off the bench to add a late goal and create further chances.

Champions League Qualifying Implications

Levski Sofia now hold a commanding four-goal advantage heading into the second leg in Banja Luka. Borac will need a near-miracle to overturn the deficit. For Levski, this result signals their intent to reach the group stage for the first time since the 2006-07 season. The Bulgarian club’s fans will be optimistic after such a polished performance.

The second leg is scheduled for next week, but Borac Banja Luka face an uphill battle to keep their European dream alive.