Ludogorets beats Botev Vratsa 2-1 to stay top of Bulgarian league

Ludogorets Razgrad secured a 2-1 home victory over Botev Vratsa in the third round of the Bulgarian First League, keeping them level on points with Levski but ahead on goal difference. Bernard Tekpetey and Ruan Cruz scored before halftime, giving the hosts a two‑goal lead. Botev pulled one back in the second half through substitute Preslav Borukov. Ludogorets coach Thomas Reis said the team started strongly but faded in the second period, citing fatigue and the need for more cohesion, especially with new signing Vidal. Botev coach Todor Simov praised his side’s dominance, noting they had not seen such control over Ludogorets recently. The match also featured a red card for Emerson Rodrigues after a VAR‑review. With the win, Ludogorets remain at the top of the table heading into the next round.