Bulgarian Cup match ends in violence and refereeing disputes

Chaos erupted during a Bulgarian Cup match between OFK Nesebar and FC Rodopa Smolyan, which Nesebar won 3-1 after extra time. The match was overshadowed by significant violence and disputes over officiating.

OFK Nesebar issued a statement condemning the aggression, noting that fans invaded the pitch, threw bottles, and used pyrotechnics following a controversial penalty decision. The club emphasized that the refereeing staff and players required police escort to leave the field, stating that such behavior has no place in modern football.

Conversely, FC Rodopa Smolyan released a declaration expressing deep disappointment with the officiating. The club questioned the appointment of referee Nikolay Zapryanov and argued that inconsistent decisions undermine the efforts of local communities and youth development programs. They called for greater transparency and professionalism within the Bulgarian Football Union.