CSKA Sofia vs Derry City Preview & Prediction | 2026-27 UEFA Europa League | First Qualifying Round

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Bulgarian giants CSKA Sofia begin their UEFA Europa League campaign against Derry City in the first qualifying round on Thursday evening.

Kick-off date/time: 9 July 2026 at 7:00 pm

How to watch on TV: UK – Not televised / USA – Not televised

How to watch online: UK – Cannot be streamed / USA – Cannot be streamed

CSKA Sofia vs Derry City prediction

CSKA Sofia finished fourth in the Bulgarian First League last season. The Army Men, as they are nicknamed, now haven’t won the Bulgarian title since 2008. They are also back in European competition for the first time since 2023 after a two-season absence.

They now face a Derry City side that boast some very good players such as Barry Cotter, Jamie Stott, Gavin Whyte, James McClean, Liam Boyce and James Olayinka. They finished second in the League of Ireland in 2025 under Tiernan Lynch.

Derry head into this one in average form domestically and CSKA Sofia, especially with their home advantage, should be expected to come out on top in this first-leg.

CSKA Sofia vs Derry City tip: CSKA Sofia to win