CSKA Sofia reaches Europa League second round with 2-1 win over Derry City

CSKA Sofia defeated Derry City 2‑1 in the second‑leg of the Europa League first‑round qualifier, securing a 5‑3 aggregate victory and advancing to the competition’s second qualifying round. The win was highlighted by goals from Ellis Chapman (47') and Ioannis Pittas (77'), with a late own‑goal by Barry Cotter sealing the result.

The match was interrupted for about 15 minutes after clashes between the two sets of supporters broke out in the stands, forcing fans onto the pitch and prompting a brief police presence. The incident raised the possibility of disciplinary action against CSKA.

CSKA entered the game without Belarusian goalkeeper Fedor Lapoukhov and midfielder Max Ebong, who were denied UK visas; the club’s coach Hristo Yanev and goalkeeper Dimitar Evtimov said the situation was politically motivated but the team remained focused. Yanev noted the visa issue could unite the squad ahead of the next tie, expected to be against Qarabağ of Azerbaijan.