Ludogorets achieved a hard 1:0 win against Spartak (Varna) and qualified for the Bulgarian Cup 1/8 finals

Both teams were guided by the head coaches’ assistants. Kahlina was Ludogorets’ captain for the first time ever. Georgiev and Budinov entered the pitch, as well as the newest addition to the team – Show.

The bad conditions of the pitch did not stop Marin from trying to score in the second minute, but the keeper saved. Georgiev tried the same but failed. The home team created a good shuffle in the 25^th minute when Lugo sent the ball to Iliev, whose goal attempt was blocked by Terziev. Rotariu and Santana both tried to score later, but they missed. Nachev had the chance to score in the 32^nd minute but missed it.

Nistorov saved twice in the 37^th minute when Marin tried to score and Yankov did the same seconds later. It was a demonstration of skills. Santana tried to outplay Nistorov before the first half ended, but the keeper saved once more.

Ludogorets earned the right to a penalty kick in the 45^th minute. Ibryam fouled Yankov and Marin scored from the penalty point. This is his first goal after his recovery from last year’s injury.

The home team created a good goal situation in the 63^rd minute when Babaliev almost scored. Lugo also missed his chance to score in the 81^st minute.

Boev and Tchibota had an argument and the referee gave them each a yellow card.

SPARTAK (VARNA) – LUDOGORETS 0:1

0:1 Marin (45' +1) - penalty

SPARTAK: Nistorov, Lugo, Ibryam, Borisov (87 – Penev), Mitev (70 – Boev), Iliev (70 – Isuf), Georgiev, Nachev, Babaliev (87 – Bozhilov), Mehmed, Kolev (79 – Yanakiev)

LUDOGORETS: Kahlina, Terziev, Pinas, Santana, Marin (82 – Mitkov), Verdon, Show (82 – Badji), Roatiru (62 – Ikoko), Budinov (75 – Manu), Yankov, Georgiev (62 – Tchibota)

Yellow cards: Ibryam, Boev (Spartak); Show, Tchibota (Ludogorets).