Levski Sofia II Hold Strumska Slava at Bay in Tense Third League Clash

By October 11, 2025

GEORGI ASPARUHOV POMOSHTNO IGRISHTE, SOFIA — In a match that delivered more tension than goals, Levski Sofia II and Strumska Slava fought to a 1-1 draw Saturday, a result that keeps both teams in the thick of the Third League – Southwest playoff chase but leaves each with unfinished business on the margins of promotion.

The hosts, a B-team of Bulgaria’s storied Levski Sofia, came into the day seventh in the table, a position that belies the gravity of their performance against a Strumska Slava side sitting comfortably in third. Levski II’s recent form had been patchy—a win, a draw, and three losses in their last five outings—but they showed composure against an opponent whose own momentum had been built on attacking flair.

Match Narrative: Moments That Mattered

The opening half-hour was marked by probing attacks from both sides, but it was Strumska Slava who first carved out a genuine chance in the 22nd minute, a curling free-kick from 20 yards that forced the Levski goalkeeper into a sharp, diving save. The visitors, buoyed by their superior league position, dominated possession in the early stages, but lacked the killer touch in the final third.

The breakthrough, when it came, was against the run of play. Levski II, content to absorb pressure and counter with pace, broke forward in the 41st minute. A quick interchange on the right flank opened space for their winger, whose low cross found the unmarked Ivan Petrov—the striker swept the ball first-time past the stranded Strumska Slava keeper, prompting a roar from the home crowd.

The second half began with renewed intent from the visitors. Strumska Slava, unbeaten in their last four, pushed forward in waves. Their equalizer arrived in the 61st minute, a well-worked move down the left culminating in a pinpoint cross and a powerful header from Dimitar Stoyanov—a goal that underscored the quality that has taken them to the upper reaches of the table.

Both sides traded chances in a frenetic final half-hour. Levski II came closest to a winner in the 78th minute, a free-kick striking the crossbar. Strumska Slava, meanwhile, saw a penalty appeal waved away in stoppage time, leaving them frustrated and the hosts relieved.

Context: Form, Table, and Rivalry

For Levski II, the draw is a small step forward. Their recent run has been characterized by defensive resilience—three of their last five outings have seen them concede two goals or fewer—and this performance against a side in form will steady nerves after last weekend’s 3-0 loss at Germaneya. With 17 points from 11 games, they remain just outside the playoff places, but a point here keeps the gap manageable.

Strumska Slava, meanwhile, will rue missed opportunities. They remain third, six points ahead of their hosts, but the inability to see off a struggling side will be a concern. Their last five matches have been a rollercoaster—three wins, a draw, and a heavy defeat at Kyustendil—but their attacking output (11 goals in those five games) wasn’t enough to turn dominance into victory today.

Historically, meetings between these clubs have been tight. Today’s result continues a trend of closely contested affairs; the last three encounters have yielded just four goals. The balance of power remains delicate, with neither side able to establish clear supremacy.

What’s Next?

For Levski II, the challenge is clear: build on this solid foundation. The next fixtures—especially against teams in the bottom half—offer a chance to climb into the top six. Their young squad will draw confidence from matching one of the division’s form teams.

Strumska Slava, by contrast, must regroup quickly. With promotion rivals breathing down their necks, every point dropped in the coming weeks could prove costly. The margin for error is thin, and their road trips—notably the loss at Kyustendil—suggest vulnerability away from home.

Final Thoughts

This was a match of fine margins and missed chances, a microcosm of life in the lower leagues where every point is fought for and every mistake punished. Levski II’s resilience and Strumska Slava’s attacking intent created a compelling narrative, but neither could write a winning ending.

As the Bulgarian autumn deepens, both teams will know: the season is long, but the opportunities are fleeting. For Levski II, the belief is back. For Strumska Slava, the pressure is on.

Scorers: Levski Sofia II – Ivan Petrov (41’) Strumska Slava – Dimitar Stoyanov (61’)

Cautions/Red Cards: None reported.

Attendance: Official figure not released.

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