Vratsa, Bulgaria – Ludogorets snatched a dramatic 1-0 victory over Botev Vratsa in the second round of the Efbet League, thanks to a last-gasp own goal in added time at the Hristo Botev Stadium.
Own Goal Seals Late Victory for Ludogorets
An own goal in the dying moments of the match handed Ludogorets a crucial win, keeping their perfect start to the season alive.
- Ludogorets secured a 1-0 win over Botev Vratsa.
- The decisive goal came from an own goal by Antoine Stoyanov in the 90+4th minute.
- This marks Ludogorets’ second consecutive win to start the season.
- Botev Vratsa, despite a strong defensive effort, were unlucky not to secure a point.
The decisive moment arrived in the 90+4th minute when a cross from Son into the penalty area caused confusion. Botev Vratsa defender Antoine Stoyanov attempted to control the ball, but it deflected off him and found its way into the lower-left corner past goalkeeper Dimitar Evtimov, who had been solid throughout the match.
Ludogorets, managed by Rui Mota, controlled more of the possession and created several chances, ultimately deserving their three points. This victory maintains their flawless record in the new season.
A Tense Encounter at Hristo Botev Stadium
The match began with Botev Vratsa showing early intent, with an attack from Daniel Genov being blocked by a Ludogorets defender. However, Ludogorets gradually asserted their dominance, applying pressure and earning several corners and free kicks. Goalkeeper Dimitar Evtimov was in fine form, denying Ludogorets on multiple occasions.
Key Chances and Tactical Shifts
The first clear opportunity came in the 27th minute when Dero Duarte’s powerful shot was parried away by Evtimov. Shortly after, Stanislav Ivanov went close with a diagonal effort that struck the post.
Botev Vratsa had their own chance to take the lead just before halftime. Daniel Genov broke through the defense but his shot was saved by the Ludogorets goalkeeper.
During the break, Ludogorets made tactical substitutions, bringing on Edwin Kurtulush and Emerson Rodriguez. Kurtulush received a yellow card shortly after entering the field.
The second half saw Ludogorets continue to press. Ivaylo Chochev missed a golden header from a Son cross, which Evtimov comfortably saved. Botev Vratsa’s Daniel Genov also had a chance on the hour mark, firing a diagonal shot just wide.
In the 72nd minute, Emerson Rodriguez’s fierce shot was brilliantly saved by Evtimov, who was keeping his team in the game. The dramatic own goal in added time ultimately settled the contest.
Final Score: Botev Vratsa 0 – 1 Ludogorets
Goal: Stoyanov 90+4′ (own goal)
Efbet League, Round 2
Stadium: Hristo Botev, Vratsa
Referee: Valentin Zhelezov
Botev Vratsa Starting XI: Dimitar Evtimov, Aimen Suda, Antoine Stoyanov, Arian Kabashi, Bozhidar Penchev, Vladislav Naydenov, Daniel Genov, Martin Smolenski, Martin Dichev, Martin Achkov, Milen Stoev.
Ludogorets Starting XI: Hendrick Bonman, Eric Anderson, Munir Shuire, Mateus (Sleep), Ivaylo Chochev, Duarte, Olivier Verdon, Yves Bila, Pedro Naresi, Simeon Shishkov, Stanislav Ivanov.
Support the Bulgarian sport
