Bulgaria - Seria
Europe - European Championship, Qualification Group G, Round 4
Bulgaria Analysis: Bulgaria managed to secure their first point in the group, but their 1-1 draw against Lithuania left them unsatisfied. They fell behind on the scoreboard in stoppage time of the 15th minute, but their situation changed two minutes later when their captain, Despotov, was sent off, giving them a numerical disadvantage. They managed to equalize in the 27th minute through Petkov and had several opportunities to turn the game around (32', 45+3', 58', 81', 86'), but were unable to find the target. The domestic media expressed great disappointment, as it seems unlikely that they will catch up with the leading duo, based on their performances. The future of coach Kristaić is once again in question, although the Technical Director of the Federation, Giorgi Ivanov, denied any plans of replacing the Serbian coach. There are no new issues with the squad compared to the previous match.
Serbia Analysis: Serbia had no competitive fixtures on the previous matchday and instead played a friendly match against Jordan in Austria, which they won 3-2 while fielding a strong rotation of players. They took the lead through defender Erakovic in the 7th minute, but then conceded two goals (54', 67') before Jovelic secured a prestigious victory with two late goals (83', 88'). The match was temporarily halted at 2-2 due to their fans invading the pitch to celebrate, but it resumed a few minutes later. In the group, Serbia achieved a perfect record in the March matches, winning 2-0 against Lithuania (home) and Montenegro (away). Their qualification is not in jeopardy, and it is expected that they will field a strong lineup in their upcoming match against Hungary, which they will host on the next matchday (7th September). While they have notable absences in their attacking lineup (Jovic, Mitrovic, Vlahovic), coach Stojkovic stated that he will employ a formation with two forwards.
There is a significant quality difference between the two teams. Although the Serbs might be relaxed, it is highly unlikely that they will drop points in Razgrad.