PFK Montana 3-1 Spartak Pleven
International Club Friendly | July 18, 2026

PFK Montana kicked off their 2026 pre-season campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over second‑tier side Spartak Pleven in a friendly that offered plenty of encouragement for the coming season. The match, played in warm summer conditions, saw Montana’s first‑team squad put in a sharp, energetic display that underlined their ambitions for the new campaign.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, Montana dictated the tempo. Their pressing forced Spartak into early errors, and it took only 14 minutes for the home side to take the lead. A well‑worked corner routine found an unmarked centre‑back, who powered a header past the Spartak goalkeeper. Montana doubled their lead just before the half‑hour mark when a swift counter‑attack was finished with composure from the edge of the box.

Spartak Pleven, to their credit, grew into the game after the interval. They pulled one back shortly after the restart, capitalising on a defensive lapse to slot home from close range. However, Montana restored their two‑goal cushion midway through the second half with a fine individual effort from a winger who cut inside and curled a shot into the far corner.

Key Moments

• 14’ – Montana break the deadlock with a powerful header from a corner.
• 27’ – A rapid transition leads to a clinical finish, making it 2‑0.
• 52’ – Spartak Pleven reduce the deficit with a scrappy goal after a set‑piece scramble.
• 68’ – Montana’s winger cuts in from the left and bends a perfect shot into the top corner.

Standout Players

Montana’s midfield general controlled the game with intelligent passing and tireless running, while their wide attacker was a constant menace, creating chances and scoring the decisive third goal. For Spartak, the central defender was solid despite the scoreline, and their substitute forward injected energy when introduced.

Pre‑Season Significance

For PFK Montana, this result continues a positive build‑up to the new term. Friendlies serve as both a fitness exercise and a chance to embed tactical ideas. Manager Stefan Genov will be pleased with the attacking fluency and the overall intensity, though the defensive lapse that gifted Spartak a goal will be addressed in training.

Spartak Pleven, meanwhile, will take heart from a competitive second‑half performance. As a side aiming for promotion in Bulgaria’s second tier, these tests against higher‑division opposition are valuable for sharpening their edge.

Overall, the 3‑1 scoreline felt a fair reflection of the balance of play, and Montana fans can look forward to the new season with cautious optimism.