Ludogorets’ reserve team began the new Second Professional League season with a narrow 0:1 away defeat to Marek in Dupnitsa. The young players from Razgrad fought for a positive result but ultimately came up short in their first official match of the campaign.
Despite extremely high temperatures, the competitive game offered promising moments for both sides. It marked the debut for several Ludogorets II players who had played in the Third League last season. The only goal of the match came in the 57th minute, scored from long range.
Ludogorets II was the more dominant and ambitious team in the second half, creating several good chances but failing to convert. The equalizer never came, thanks in large part to key saves by Marek’s goalkeeper. As the match wore on, play became fragmented and the overall football quality declined.
"I'm very pleased with the boys’ performance for a first match of the new season. They showed the desire and effort needed to grow in professional football," commented Ludogorets II head coach Zahari Sirakov after the final whistle.
Next week, Ludogorets II will host CSKA II (Sofia) at home. The match is scheduled for Sunday at 8 PM.
