Slavia Sofia 1–0 Sepsi OSK Sfântu Gheorghe
International Club Friendly | 3 July 2026, 15:30 local time

Pre-Season Test Sees Slavia Sofia Edge Past Sepsi

Slavia Sofia kicked off their 2026–27 pre-season preparations with a narrow 1–0 victory over Romanian side Sepsi OSK Sfântu Gheorghe in a friendly played behind closed doors. The Bulgarian First League outfit controlled large stretches of the match and were rewarded with a second-half strike that decided the contest.

Match Overview

Both teams used the encounter to build fitness and test tactical systems ahead of their respective domestic campaigns. Slavia manager Zlatomir Zagorčić fielded a mix of experienced regulars and young prospects, while Sepsi coach Valentin Suciu gave minutes to several new signings. The match, played on a warm afternoon at Slavia’s training complex, was competitive without crossing into aggressive territory.

Key Moment: Decisive Second-Half Goal

The deadlock was broken in the 58th minute. Slavia’s left winger, Vladimir Nikolov, picked up a loose ball 25 yards from goal, drove infield, and unleashed a low drive that beat Sepsi goalkeeper Roland Niczuly inside the far post. The goal was the result of sustained pressure from the home side, who had created the better chances in the first half without finding the net.

Tactical Story

Slavia Sofia set up in a 4-2-3-1 shape, looking to control possession and press high when Sepsi tried to build from the back. The Bulgarian side dominated the midfield through captain Georgi Yomov and holding midfielder Ivaylo Ivanov, who repeatedly broke up Sepsi’s attacks. Sepsi, in a 4-3-3 formation, struggled to connect their midfield with lone striker Marko Gjorgjievski, who was isolated for long periods. The Romanian side’s best chance came in the 72nd minute when substitute Andrei Cordea fired just over the bar from the edge of the box.

Standout Performers

• Vladimir Nikolov (Slavia Sofia) – Scored the winner and was a constant threat on the flank, completing four dribbles and creating two chances.
• Ivaylo Ivanov (Slavia Sofia) – Dominated the midfield with seven ball recoveries and a pass completion rate above 90%.
• Roland Niczuly (Sepsi OSK) – Despite conceding, the Sepsi goalkeeper made three solid saves to keep the score respectable.

Season Context

For Slavia Sofia, this friendly marks the beginning of a series of pre-season tests as they prepare for the 2026–27 Bulgarian First League campaign, where they will aim to build on a mid-table finish last season. Sepsi OSK, who ended the previous Romanian Liga I season in sixth place, are also in the early stages of their build-up, with further friendlies scheduled against Hungarian and Polish opposition. Both managers will be pleased with the physical output and tactical discipline shown, even if the final scoreline was tight.