CSKA Sofia advances to Europa League playoffs after Maccabi Tel Aviv clash

CSKA Sofia has advanced to the UEFA Europa League playoffs after overcoming Maccabi Tel Aviv with a 4-3 aggregate score. Despite losing the second leg 1-3 at the Vasil Levski National Stadium, CSKA utilized their 3-0 victory from the first match in Georgia to secure their progression.

The second leg was a high-tension affair. Maccabi took an early lead through Peretz, followed by a second goal from Ester Sokler in the 61st minute. CSKA's Stefano Sensi managed to pull one back, but an own goal by David Pastor in the 69th minute extended Maccabi's lead. CSKA ultimately held on to maintain their aggregate advantage.

CSKA coach Hristo Yanev expressed mixed emotions, describing the result as a great success for the club while noting that the team has much to learn after being outplayed in several aspects by Maccabi. Player Stefano Sensi also highlighted the team's unity and the importance of the result for their European ambitions.