CSKA Sofia vs Derry City prediction: teams form analysis, possible lineups on July 9, 2026
In the 1/8 finals of the Europa League qualification, the first leg between CSKA Sofia and Derry City will take place on July 9, 2026. Both teams are confident in their chances of success.
CSKA Sofia vs Derry City: Team News and Expert Analysis
The Sofia club finished only fourth in the previous championship. However, they managed to win their first national cup in five years (and their 22nd overall), which allowed them to participate in the current tournament. Prior to this, in friendlies, they lost to Polissya but won the other three matches.
The team from Northern Ireland plays in the Republic’s Premier League. They almost reclaimed the title, but Shamrock Rovers ended up with a couple more points. This season, their results have been much poorer, especially in recent rounds. After a 2-4 defeat to the underdog Waterford, they now sit only sixth in the standings.
The Bulgarians play cautiously—scoring only 1.31 goals per game while conceding just 0.83. The visitors from Ulster average 1.28 goals scored and concede roughly the same—1.24 per match.
Previous Matches: CSKA Sofia vs Derry City
Back in 2009, in the UEFA Cup qualifiers, the Bulgarians narrowly won 1-0 at home, then drew the return leg and advanced to the next round.
It is unlikely that the teams are ready to entertain the fans with spectacular football now. We believe this match will end with "under 3.0 total goals" (odds – 1.86).
CSKA Sofia vs Derry City: Key Statistics and Trends
- CSKA Sofia have won three of their last four matches
- Derry City have won just one of their last nine matches
- 64% of Derry City's matches end with both teams scoring and an average total of 2.41 goals per game
- 64% of Derry City's matches end with both teams scoring and an average total of 2.52 goals per game
CSKA Sofia vs Derry City: Probable Starting Lineups
CSKA Sofia use a 1-4-3-3 formation (probable lineup): Lapoukhov - Delova, Martino, Pastor, Ivanov - Bruno Jordao, Panayotov, Ebong - Leo, Godoy, Piedrahita
Derry City use a 1-4-3-3 formation (probable lineup): Bich - Fleming, Stott, Barr, Cotter - Clarke, Olayinka, O’Reilly - Duffy, Kevin dos Santos, Akinyemi
Follow the Europa League qualification standings and learn about your team's form before placing a bet on the next match
