Pittas double sends CSKA past Derry in Europa League thriller

CSKA Sofia made the perfect start to their Europa League qualification campaign with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Derry City on a sweltering evening in Bulgaria. The home crowd sensed early opportunity as the hosts pressed high from the opening whistle, creating an atmosphere of genuine intensity befitting continental competition. Derry, arriving as underdogs in this first qualifying round tie, settled into a defensive shape and looked to exploit space on the counter attack.

CSKA broke the deadlock in the 20th minute when Ivailo Pittas showed sharp finishing to fire past the Derry goalkeeper. The early goal seemed to have settled the hosts, but the visitors responded with admirable character. Just 11 minutes later, Derry levelled through Liam Boyce, who converted a chance that restored parity and gave the Irish club genuine belief. CSKA restored their advantage before half time when Bruno Jordao netted in the 42nd minute, sending the home side in ahead at the interval.

The second half proved decisive. Pittas added his second goal of the night in the 53rd minute to give CSKA a 3-1 cushion, seemingly settling the contest. Derry refused to surrender, however, and kept fighting through the closing stages. The visitors pushed forward and pulled another goal back, setting up a tense finale, but CSKA held firm to claim the three points and take control of the tie.

The victory gives CSKA a commanding position heading into the return leg and represents an important step in their European campaign. Derry City showed they belong at this level with their resilient display, though they face an uphill task in the second fixture. For CSKA, the 3-2 scoreline proved more competitive than they might have hoped, but a home win in qualification is exactly what the doctor ordered.