CSKA Sofia advances to Europa League playoffs despite defeat to Maccabi Tel Aviv

CSKA Sofia successfully qualified for the Europa League playoffs on August 13, 2026, despite a 3-1 loss in the return leg against Maccabi Tel Aviv. Having won the first match 3-0, the Bulgarian team advanced with a 4-3 aggregate score. Maccabi Tel Aviv initially took control with goals from Peretz in the 12th minute and Schockler in the 61st minute. Stefano Sensi pulled one back for CSKA in the 66th minute, but an own goal by Lepukov just three minutes later briefly restored hope for the Israeli side before the final whistle secured the aggregate win for the Bulgarians.

CSKA Sofia, featuring players Ioannis Pittas and Stefano Sensi, will now face the Greek club OFI in the playoff round. OFI recently claimed victory in the Super Cup against AEK Athens. The first leg of this playoff series is scheduled for August 20, 2026, at the Pankritio Stadium, with the return match set to take place in Sofia on August 27, 2026.