Borac et Levski partagent leurs victoires lors des qualifications de la Ligue des champions

The Bosnian hosts made the brighter start under the Banja Luka lights, and their early pressure paid dividends when Luka Juričić stepped up to convert a penalty in the ninth minute. The opening stages had been tense, with referee decisions coming thick and fast as both sides tested each other's resolve. Levski's Nikolay Serafimov was cautioned early on for a poor challenge, setting the tone for what would prove a competitive encounter.

The Bulgarian visitors grew into the match as the first half progressed, though they remained frustrated by Borac's disciplined defensive shape. Juričić picked up a booking of his own midway through the second period, a yellow card that hinted at the physical nature of proceedings. Borac looked to consolidate their lead and control the tempo, but Levski refused to roll over and consistently pushed forward looking for an equaliser.

The turning point came in the 55th minute when A. Oko-Flex levelled the score, pulling Levski level at 1-1 and breathing new life into the visitors. The goal sparked a spell of Bulgarian dominance as they sensed an opportunity to seize momentum in this tie. S. Ogrinec became the third player to see yellow as Borac scrambled to regain their composure and regain control of the midfield battle.

The 1-1 draw leaves the tie completely open heading into the return fixture in Sofia. Both teams will feel they have unfinished business, with everything still to play for in what shapes up as a fascinating second leg. Borac will rue not converting their early advantage, while Levski can take heart from their response and equaliser. The qualification battle between these two sides remains genuinely finely poised.