CSKA Sofia
Derry City
>CSKA Sofia vs Derry City Predictions, Picks & Odds – 09/07/2026
Europa League · 1st Qualifying RoundCSKA Sofia vs Derry City – Best bets of the match
CSKA Sofia vs Derry City Preview
CSKA Sofia arrive at this Europa League first qualifying round as reigning Bulgarian Cup champions, their 22nd title in the competition. Pre-season has gone well for the hosts, with three wins from four friendlies capped by a commanding 3-0 victory over Marek. Former Inter Milan midfielder Stefano Sensi is set to make his competitive debut, while prolific striker Leandro Godoy, who bagged 13 goals last season, should spearhead the attack at Stadion Vasil Levski.
Derry City travel to Sofia in underwhelming form. Tiernan Lynch's side sit sixth in the League of Ireland table, 21 points adrift of leaders Shamrock Rovers after 25 games. Their most recent outing, a 4-2 loss to Waterford on July 3, highlighted defensive frailties that CSKA will look to exploit. Away form is a particular concern; Derry have managed just one road victory since the end of January. A potential absence for midfielder Darragh Markey due to a muscle issue compounds their difficulties.
CSKA Sofia's home win at 1.32 is the cornerstone of this preview. The Bulgarian Cup holders wrapped up pre-season with three wins from four friendlies, including a commanding 3-0 demolition of Marek. Leandro Godoy, fresh off a 13-goal domestic campaign, provides genuine cutting edge, while Stefano Sensi adds serious pedigree to their midfield.
Derry City's struggles make it hard to back them here. Sixth in the League of Ireland, 21 points adrift of Shamrock Rovers, Tiernan Lynch's side have managed just one away win since late January. A 4-2 loss to Waterford days ago exposed defensive frailties, and a potential absence for Darragh Markey through a muscle issue only compounds their problems heading into Sofia.
The historical precedent also favours CSKA, who eliminated Derry on aggregate back in 2009. With superior squad depth, home advantage at the Vasil Levski, and sharper match fitness, the Bulgarians should control this first leg. We also lean towards under 2.5 goals at N/A, given CSKA's record of conceding fewer than a goal per game across their last 30 outings. Odds correct at time of publication.
Trends to Know about CSKA Sofia vs Derry City
- CSKA won three of four pre-season friendlies
- Derry have one away win since January
- Godoy netted 13 domestic goals last season
Form & Statistics: CSKA Sofia vs Derry City
CSKA Sofia
Season statistics
Derry City
Season statistics
CSKA Sofia vs Derry City: Head-to-Head
Average statistics (recent meetings)
How to Watch CSKA Sofia vs Derry City Match?
What time is CSKA Sofia vs Derry City?
CSKA Sofia host Derry City at Stadion Vasil Levski on July 9, 2026, with kickoff at 19:00 local time.
Where is CSKA Sofia vs Derry City being played?
This Europa League clash takes place at the iconic Stadion Vasil Levski in Sofia, Bulgaria.
How Can I Watch CSKA Sofia vs Derry City on TV and Live Stream?
Check local listings for broadcast details, as coverage varies by region. Odds correct at time of publication.