CSKA 1948 Sofia 0-0 Spartak Trnava | UEFA Europa Conference League | 29 July 2026

CSKA 1948 Sofia and Spartak Trnava played out a tense goalless draw in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League second qualifying round tie at the Stadion Bistritsa. Both sides created half-chances but lacked the cutting edge in the final third, leaving the tie finely poised ahead of next week's return leg in Slovakia.

Match Overview

The Bulgarian hosts entered the match as slight favourites given their home advantage and recent strong domestic form. Spartak Trnava, representing the Slovak Super Liga, showed discipline and organisation, nullifying the attacking threat of CSKA 1948 for long periods. The 0-0 scoreline reflects a contest where defences largely dominated.

Key Moments

• 12th minute: CSKA 1948's winger forced a sharp save from Trnava goalkeeper Dobrivoj Rusov after cutting inside from the left.
• 34th minute: Spartak Trnava's best chance came from a corner, but the header from centre-back Kristián Mihálik flashed just wide of the post.
• 67th minute: A powerful long-range effort from CSKA midfielder Georgi Yomov was tipped over the bar by Rusov.
• 83rd minute: Spartak Trnava substitute Samuel Kováč broke through the defence but saw his shot blocked by a last-ditch tackle from Bulgarian international Ivan Turitsov.

Tactical Story

CSKA 1948 Sofia attempted to control possession through their midfield trio, but Spartak Trnava remained compact in a 4-4-2 shape, forcing the hosts into wide crosses that were comfortably dealt with. The Slovak side looked dangerous on the counter-attack, particularly through left winger Milan Ristovski, but final passes often let them down. The match became increasingly physical in the second half, with five yellow cards shown in total.

Standout Players

CSKA 1948 goalkeeper Gustavo Busatto had relatively little to do but commanded his area well. For Spartak Trnava, defender Miroslav Košťál stood out with a series of crucial interceptions and headed clearances. The clean sheet will please Spartak manager Michal Hipp, and his team will feel confident of finishing the job at home.

Season Impact

The draw leaves the tie evenly balanced. The winner will advance to the third qualifying round, with a potential group stage spot at stake later in the summer. CSKA 1948 will need to score in Slovakia to progress, while Spartak Trnava know that a single goal could be enough to send them through.