Lisbon, Portugal – Former CSKA Sofia player and administrator Stoyko Sakaliev has voiced strong opinions regarding the current state of Bulgarian football, particularly the rivalry between CSKA Sofia and Levski Sofia, and the upcoming match against Ludogorets. Sakaliev’s comments, made ahead of CSKA’s crucial derby against Ludogorets, highlight a deep-seated belief in CSKA’s commitment to victory and a pointed critique of Levski’s approach in past encounters.
Sakaliev, reflecting on a match three years prior, recalled a perceived lack of effort from Levski during a similar stage of the season when they faced Ludogorets in Razgrad. He believes this ultimately contributed to CSKA’s failure to secure the league title that year. “We differ from Levski in that we are 100% in every match,” Sakaliev stated, emphasizing CSKA’s unwavering dedication. His remarks underscore a historical pattern he perceives – a consistent all-out effort from CSKA, contrasting with what he views as a more measured approach from their rivals.
CSKA’s Winning Mentality and Ludogorets Challenge
The former player and administrator insists that a winning mentality is ingrained in CSKA’s DNA. “The CSKA team has always gone out to win, It’s ingrained in the subconscious of the ‘reds’,” Sakaliev explained. He attributes this relentless pursuit of victory to the club’s past successes both domestically and in European competitions, and to the respect it commands within the footballing world. Sakaliev, identifying himself as a lifelong CSKA supporter, believes that head coach Hristo Yanev holds the key to overcoming Ludogorets in their upcoming clash in Razgrad.
The match against Ludogorets is particularly significant, as it’s not just a league fixture but also a psychological battle. Sakaliev described Ludogorets as a “serious irritant” for CSKA, adding that upcoming cup matches against the same opponent will further intensify the rivalry. He firmly believes that CSKA “always wants to beat Ludogorets, at all costs.” The Bulgarian Cup offers a different dynamic, with a two-legged format providing a chance for redemption should the initial encounter not go as planned.
Levski’s Position and a Bold Prediction
Despite CSKA’s focus on their own performance, Sakaliev also addressed Levski’s current standing in the league. As of March 13, 2026, Levski holds a 13-point lead over CSKA. However, Sakaliev expressed surprise at the widespread assumption that Levski has already secured the championship. He suggests that a potential collapse from Levski, coupled with strong performances from CSKA and CSKA 1948, could dramatically alter the title race.
Sakaliev even ventured a bold prediction, suggesting that if Levski were to lose all remaining matches against CSKA and stumble against CSKA 1948, a championship win for CSKA is not entirely out of the question. He drew a historical parallel, stating, “Perhaps it seems crazy to many what I am saying, but no one believed at one time that Napoleon would conquer the whole world, but he did.” This comparison underscores Sakaliev’s belief in the unpredictable nature of football and the possibility of a dramatic turnaround.
Analyzing the Current League Standings
The current Bulgarian First League standings present a challenging scenario for CSKA. While a 13-point deficit is significant, the remaining matches offer opportunities to close the gap. Ludogorets, consistently a top contender in Bulgarian football, represents a major hurdle. CSKA’s performance in the upcoming matches against Ludogorets, both in the league and the Bulgarian Cup, will be crucial in determining their championship aspirations. CSKA 1948, another strong competitor, adds another layer of complexity to the title race. Their matches against both Levski and CSKA will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the final outcome.
The Bulgarian First League, officially known as the Pefka League (Първа професионална футболна лига), is the top level of Bulgarian football. The league operates on a promotion and relegation system, with the bottom teams facing demotion to the Second Professional Football League. The current season, 2025-2026, has been marked by intense competition and unexpected results, making Sakaliev’s comments particularly relevant in the context of a potentially unpredictable finish.
Sakaliev’s Legacy at CSKA Sofia
Stoyko Sakaliev’s connection to CSKA Sofia extends beyond his playing days. He also served as an administrator for the club, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of its inner workings. His insights are therefore informed by both on-field experience and behind-the-scenes knowledge. Sakaliev’s career with CSKA spanned several years, during which he became a popular figure among the club’s supporters. His dedication to the “reds” is evident in his passionate commentary and unwavering belief in their potential.
CSKA Sofia, officially known as PFC CSKA Sofia (ПФК ЦСКА София), is one of the most successful football clubs in Bulgaria, boasting a rich history and a large fan base. Founded in 1948, the club has won numerous league titles and domestic cups, as well as achieving notable success in European competitions. The club’s rivalry with Levski Sofia is one of the most intense and long-standing in Bulgarian football, adding further significance to Sakaliev’s remarks.
The upcoming matches against Ludogorets and Levski will be pivotal moments in CSKA’s season. Sakaliev’s call for a 100% commitment in every match reflects the club’s historical ethos and the expectations of its passionate supporters. Whether CSKA can overcome the challenges ahead and mount a serious title challenge remains to be seen, but Sakaliev’s words serve as a rallying cry for the “reds” as they navigate a crucial period in their season.
The next key date for CSKA Sofia is the match against Ludogorets, scheduled for the coming weeks. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to see if the team can live up to Sakaliev’s expectations and secure a vital victory. Stay tuned to World Today Journal for continued coverage of the Bulgarian First League and the latest developments in the title race.
What are your thoughts on Sakaliev’s comments? Do you reckon CSKA can still challenge for the title? Share your opinions in the comments below and be sure to share this article with fellow football fans!