CSKA Sofia II 3-3 Yantra Gabrovo: Six-Goal Thriller Ends All Square in Vtora Liga

CSKA Sofia II and Yantra Gabrovo played out a breathless 3-3 draw in the Bulgarian Vtora Liga, with the lead changing hands and late drama ensuring both sides left with a point. The match was a showcase of attacking intent and defensive vulnerability, producing six goals and a series of momentum swings that kept the outcome uncertain until the final whistle.

For CSKA Sofia II, the result shows the potential of their young side but also the cost of lapses in concentration. Yantra Gabrovo, meanwhile, demonstrated character to come from behind and then edge ahead, only to be pegged back in the closing stages. It was a point that felt both valuable and frustrating for both camps.

Match Overview

CSKA Sofia II started brightly and took the lead in the 12th minute through Martin Stoyanov, who finished neatly after a flowing move. Yantra Gabrovo responded well and equalized in the 27th minute when Ivan Kolev converted from close range following a corner.

The hosts regained the advantage in the 39th minute, with Stoyanov turning provider before a teammate restored the lead. However, Yantra Gabrovo came out stronger after the break and levelled again in the 56th minute. The visitors then took the lead for the first time in the 71st minute, capitalizing on a defensive mistake to make it 3-2.

Just when it looked like Yantra Gabrovo would take all three points, CSKA Sofia II found a late equalizer in the 88th minute. A patient build-up ended with a low cross that was turned in at the near post, sparking relief among the home supporters and ensuring the points were shared.

Key Moments

• 12th minute: Martin Stoyanov gives CSKA Sofia II an early lead.
• 27th minute: Ivan Kolev equalizes for Yantra Gabrovo from a corner.
• 39th minute: CSKA Sofia II restore their advantage with a well-worked team goal.
• 56th minute: Yantra Gabrovo level again after a strong start to the second half.
• 71st minute: Yantra Gabrovo take a 3-2 lead after a defensive error.
• 88th minute: CSKA Sofia II grab a dramatic late equalizer.

Tactical Story

CSKA Sofia II played with energy and intent, pressing high and looking to create chances through quick combinations. Their young side moved the ball well in the attacking third and caused Yantra Gabrovo problems with runs in behind. However, they were also exposed defensively when Yantra Gabrovo broke quickly and exploited space in transition.

Yantra Gabrovo grew into the game after a shaky start. Their midfield began to win more second balls, and their wide players stretched the CSKA back line. The visitors’ set-piece threat was evident throughout, and their second-half comeback was built on greater intensity and direct running. In the end, neither defence could hold firm, and the game finished level.

Standout Players

Martin Stoyanov was at the heart of CSKA Sofia II’s best attacking moments, contributing a goal and constant movement in the final third. Ivan Kolev was Yantra Gabrovo’s most dangerous outlet, scoring the equalizer and causing problems with his hold-up play. Both goalkeepers were busy, and both midfields produced moments of quality in a game that never settled.

Season Impact

The draw adds a point to both teams’ Vtora Liga totals, though each will feel they could have taken more. CSKA Sofia II will focus on tightening their defensive shape and managing key moments better, while Yantra Gabrovo will take encouragement from their resilience and attacking output. In a league defined by fine margins, the late equalizer could prove significant by the end of the season.