# Bulgarian Cup 1/16 finals matchups confirmed

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/bulgarian-cup-tournament-progression
> Updated: 2026-10-03T12:59:27.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2.

The Bulgarian Cup tournament progressed from its initial draw through the preliminary stages. The draw established matchups for the second preliminary round, involving 36 teams from the Second League and amateur divisions, as well as the round of 16 featuring First League teams.

Following the conclusion of the second qualifying round, the lineup for the 1/16 finals was determined. Spartak Pleven initially secured their place after a 2-1 away victory against Krumovgrad, setting up a matchup against Levski Sofia. This match was held in Lovech due to stadium renovations and drew approximately 7,000 spectators.

Despite a competitive first half where Spartak Pleven nearly took the lead through a Victor Ivanov shot that hit the crossbar, Levski Sofia secured a 2-0 victory. Everton Bala opened the scoring in the 56th minute via a penalty after Armstrong Oko-Flex was fouled, and Mazir Sula doubled the lead in the 80th minute. The match also featured the debut of central defender Petko Hristov. Levski coach Julio Velazquez, who implemented ten lineup changes following the club’s recent Europa League performance, noted that the team faced significant pressure and lacked rhythm in the opening period. Conversely, Spartak Pleven coach Krasimir Bislimov praised his team's performance against the top-tier side.

Other notable advancements in the 1/16 finals include Chernomorets Burgas facing Botev Plovdiv; Spartak Plovdiv playing Arda Kardzhali; and Hebar Pazardzhik, who advanced with a 5-0 win against FK Yambol. CSKA 1948 secured a spot following a 4-0 victory against Neftochimic, and Lokomotiv Plovdiv defeated Yantra 2-0. Defending champions CSKA were scheduled to begin their title defense against Nesebar on October 18. Additionally, Vihren Sandanski was set to face Lokomotiv Sofia on October 17.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-03: Bulgarian Cup 1/16 finals matchups confirmed

The Bulgarian Cup 1/16 finals lineup is set, featuring matchups such as Spartak Pleven vs. Levski Sofia and Chernomorets Burgas vs. Botev Plovdiv.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/spartak-pleven-advances-to-bulgarian-cup-round-of-16

### 2026-09-23: Bulgarian Cup draw sets matchups for preliminary and round of 16 stages

The Bulgarian Cup draw has set the matchups for the second preliminary round and the round of 16, featuring top clubs like Levski and CSKA.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bulgarian-cup-draw-sets-matchups-for-preliminary-and-round-of-16-stages

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Cite as: Bulgarian Cup 1/16 finals matchups confirmed. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/bulgarian-cup-tournament-progression