CSKA Sofia Beats Bottom-Ranked Dunav Ruse Ahead of Maccabi Tel Aviv Clash

CSKA Sofia secured a 2-1 victory over Dunav Ruse, the league's bottom team, ahead of their upcoming Europa League third qualifying round match against Maccabi Tel Aviv on August 6, 2026. The Bulgarian side overturned an early 1-0 deficit, scoring in the 17th and 79th minutes to claim their second league win in three rounds. Dutch striker Joel Zwarts, who has been in excellent form, started and played the full match, scoring his third league goal of the season after a previous brace against Botev Plovdiv. Cypriot forward Ioannis Pittas, who has also started the season strongly with four goals and an assist, is expected to lead the attack in the upcoming European fixture. CSKA Sofia's coach made several changes from their last Europa League game against Qarabag, giving Zwarts a key role. Local media highlighted the tough challenge posed by Dunav Ruse, noting that CSKA "played with fire" but ultimately secured the comeback and vital points. The winner of the tie between CSKA Sofia and Maccabi Tel Aviv will guarantee a European campaign, either in the Europa League or the Conference League.