Dimitrov Strike Sends Levski Through Against Craiova

Levski Sofia made the perfect start under the Sofia summer night, breaking the deadlock within eight minutes when K. Dimitrov found the back of the net. The home side controlled the early exchanges and looked comfortable in possession, setting a brisk tempo that kept Universitatea Craiova on the back foot from the opening whistle. The Bulgarian champions were sharp and purposeful, with their early goal giving them the platform to dictate proceedings.

The match grew scrappy as both teams picked up bookings, with O. Romanchuk and Ș. Baiaram cautioned for Craiova before Aldair and E. Bala followed suit for the hosts. Levski protected their one-goal advantage through the middle stages, forcing their Romanian opponents to chase the game without ever looking truly threatening in front of goal. Despite Craiova's attempts to impose themselves, the hosts' defensive discipline kept them at arm's length and their attacking play remained a constant outlet on the counter.

Levski's tactical approach of sitting deep and hitting on the break frustrated Craiova throughout the second half. The visitors pressed for an equaliser but found little space or clear opportunities against a well-organised home defence. Both sides had chances to shape the narrative further, yet neither managed to add to the scoreline as the match wore on. Craiova's frustration grew as the clock ticked down, but they could not find the breakthrough needed to stay alive in the competition.

The 1-0 victory sent Levski through to the next qualifying round and represented a solid night's work for the Bulgarian side at home. They controlled what was needed to control, defended with discipline, and took their chance when it came in the opening minutes. For Craiova, the defeat ended their Champions League journey at this early stage, leaving them with work to do in their own domestic campaign. Levski will now look ahead to the next hurdle in their quest for the group stages.