Ludogorets edfeats Loko (Plovdiv) in the battle for Europe

Ludogorets will compete in European football next summer. The 14-time Bulgarian champions secured a place in the second qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League after defeating Loko (Plovdiv) in a penalty shootout in the final playoff match.

The hero for the "Eagles" was Hendrik Bonmann, who saved three penalties and frustrated the opposition's players. The German goalkeeper also made two crucial saves during extra time.

For Ludogorets, Ivan Yordanov, Erick Marcus, and Rwan Cruz converted their penalties, while Kwadwo Duah missed the team's first spot kick.

During regular time, Ludogorets dominated the match and registered 20 shots on the goal defended by Milisavljević. The closest players to scoring were Petar Stanic and Erick Bile. On one occasion, the woodwork also came to Loko (Plovdiv)'s rescue after a shot from Alberto Salido.

Deroy Duarte also delivered an outstanding performance. He stayed specifically to help his teammates in the playoff match despite the Cape Verde national team already being in training camp.

Ludogorets will now be on break until June 18, after which the team will begin its summer preparations. The first stage of pre-season training will take place in Razgrad.