OFI travels to Sofia for Europa League playoff return leg against CSKA

OFI Crete departs for Sofia on Wednesday, August 26, to compete in the second leg of the Europa League playoff round against CSKA Sofia. The Greek side holds a commanding 3-0 advantage from the first match held in Heraklion. The pivotal encounter is scheduled for Thursday, August 27, at 21:00 at the Vasil Levski National Stadium, where OFI aims to secure a spot in the Europa League League Phase.

OFI head coach Christos Kontis has emphasized the need for a disciplined performance, urging his team to maintain a winning mentality rather than simply defending their lead. The squad of 24 players traveled without forward Aaron Leya Iseka, who is sidelined with a groin injury, and defender Nikos Marinakis, who remains in rehabilitation. Despite these absences, club owner Michalis Bousis accompanied the team to Bulgaria for the decisive fixture, which the coaching staff views as a critical test of the team's character and defensive organization.