CSKA Sofia B edged out Sportist Svoge 2-1 in a tightly contested International Club Friendly at the club's training base on June 27, 2026. The match, played under a warm afternoon sun, served as an important test for both sides as they continue their pre-season preparations. The result provided the young CSKA Sofia B squad with a confidence-boosting win, while Sportist Svoge showed character despite the narrow defeat.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, CSKA Sofia B dictated possession, using their technical edge to probe the Sportist Svoge defence. However, the visitors remained compact and looked dangerous on the counter-attack. The first half was a tactical battle, with both sides creating half-chances but failing to break the deadlock before the interval.

The home side took the lead early in the second half when a swift passing move unlocked the Svoge backline, allowing a forward to slot home from close range. Sportist Svoge responded strongly and equalised midway through the half with a well-struck effort from outside the box that left the CSKA goalkeeper with no chance. The momentum seemed to swing, but CSKA Sofia B showed resilience. With just over ten minutes remaining, a set-piece situation produced the winner – a header from a corner kick that powered past the visiting keeper.

Key Moments

• 52' Goal – CSKA Sofia B open the scoring with a composed finish after patient build-up play.
• 68' Goal – Sportist Svoge level with a stunning long-range strike, catching the hosts off guard.
• 78' Goal – The winning goal arrives from a corner, as a CSKA defender rises highest to head home.
• 85' Miss – Sportist Svoge nearly equalise again, but a last-ditch block preserves the lead.

Tactical Story

CSKA Sofia B, the reserve side of the Bulgarian top-flight club, employed a high-pressing system designed to force errors from the Sportist Svoge defence. Their midfield trio controlled the tempo, recycling possession and creating overloads on the flanks. In contrast, Sportist Svoge relied on direct transitions, using the pace of their wingers to exploit space behind the full-backs. The match highlighted areas for both teams to refine before competitive fixtures begin.

Standout Players

• CSKA Sofia B No. 9 – His movement off the ball caused constant problems, and he took his goal clinically. Also played a key role in the build-up to the winner.
• Sportist Svoge midfielder (scorer) – His equaliser was a moment of individual brilliance, and his energy in the engine room kept his team competitive throughout.
• CSKA Sofia B centre-back – Solid defensively and decisive at the other end with the winning header, earning him a man-of-the-match display.

Season Impact

For CSKA Sofia B, this friendly provides valuable match sharpness ahead of their Second League campaign. The ability to come from behind and secure a win builds morale. Sportist Svoge, meanwhile, will take positives from their resistance and attacking threat, even if the result didn't go their way. Both teams will now turn attention to their remaining pre-season fixtures as they fine-tune tactics and fitness.