Maccabi Tel Aviv Suffers 3-0 Defeat to CSKA Sofia in Europa League Qualifier
Maccabi Tel Aviv lost 3-0 to CSKA Sofia in the first leg of the third qualifying round of the Europa League. The match took place on Thursday in Batumi, Georgia, where Maccabi hosted the Bulgarian side behind closed doors due to a UEFA sanction. CSKA Sofia took an early lead in the 9th minute with a precise shot by Max Ebong. They doubled their advantage in the 29th minute when Godoy scored following a corner kick.
Maccabi Tel Aviv struggled defensively and missed several clear chances, including a notable miss by Dor Peretz from the penalty spot shortly after the second goal. In the second half, Maccabi showed some improvement and created opportunities, with new signing Esther Sokler making his debut in the 68th minute. However, they failed to score, and CSKA Sofia sealed the 3-0 victory.
The return leg is scheduled for next week in Sofia, where Maccabi Tel Aviv will attempt a difficult comeback to overturn the deficit. Despite their efforts, the Bulgarian team dominated the match and maintained control throughout.
Summary: Maccabi Tel Aviv lost 3-0 at home to CSKA Sofia in the Europa League third qualifying round first leg, facing a tough challenge ahead in the away leg next week.
The same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.
Not the same event — other stories that share this one’s people, places, or theme: background, reactions, and follow-ups.