CSKA Sofia draws 0‑0 with Qarabağ in Baku, revanch set for July 30

CSKA Sofia played Qarabağ in the first leg of the UEFA Europa League second qualifying round at Baku’s Tofik Bahramov Stadium. The match ended 0‑0 after a VAR decision ruled out a late goal by Qarabağ’s Kadi Borzheš. Both sides created several chances; CSKA’s goalkeeper Fyodor Lapohoúhov made multiple saves, while Qarabağ’s attack threatened repeatedly.

CSKA coach Hristo Yanev said his team were “very satisfied” with the performance and felt confident ahead of the return leg in Sofia. Qarabağ manager Gurban Gurbanov praised CSKA’s quality and said a loss would not be a surprise, noting the sides are evenly matched. Former player Simeon Slavchev highlighted Qarabağ’s modern playing style and said he could provide valuable insight to CSKA. Midfielder Andrian Kraev, speaking after a separate European fixture, also expressed optimism about the club’s European campaign.

The aggregate winner of the two‑leg tie will be decided in Sofia on July 30, where CSKA will look to capitalize on home advantage.