Hapoel Tel Aviv Stuns Ludogorets with 2-0 Victory in Bulgaria

On July 23, Hapoel Tel Aviv secured a notable 2-0 win against Bulgarian club Ludogorets in an impressive performance led by coach Eliniv Berda. The match took place in Bulgaria and marked Ludogorets as the first Bulgarian team to lose in European competition this season. Bulgarian media reacted strongly to the defeat, with one sports outlet describing Ludogorets as "cornered after a tough night" and emphasizing the need for drastic measures to remain in European tournaments.

A particularly striking headline in Bulgarian media read, "The Jews slapped Ludogorets," highlighting the unexpected nature of the loss. Reports noted that Ludogorets conceded two easy goals, one in each half, and despite both teams appearing evenly matched, Ludogorets' defense collapsed twice. The hope remains for Ludogorets to overturn the result in the upcoming match in Razgrad.

A standout player for Hapoel Tel Aviv was Bulgarian midfielder Andrian Kraiev, who is notably associated with Ludogorets' rival, Levski Sofia. Bulgarian commentary pointed out Ludogorets' lack of ideas and their collapse against Kraiev and his teammates. The victory is seen as a significant achievement for Hapoel Tel Aviv in European competition.