At the Stadion Lokomotiv in Sofia on 15 December 2025, Septemvri Sofia host Ludogorets in a Bulgarian Cup fixture that follows a demanding European week for the visitors and continues a difficult domestic spell for the hosts.
Prediction: Both Teams to Score – Yes
This matchup suggests a scenario where Ludogorets maintain overall control but may not emerge with a clean sheet. Fatigue, rotation, and the nature of a cup tie open the door for Septemvri to contribute despite the clear gap in quality.
Septemvri Still Searching for a Turning Point
Septemvri’s problems show no real signs of easing under Slavko Matić, with defeats continuing to pile up and confidence remaining fragile. Victories have been elusive for a prolonged period, and performances often lack the attacking sharpness needed to change momentum. That said, cup matches tend to bring a different emotional charge, especially at home, and Septemvri are likely to approach this game with greater urgency than their recent league outings. Even so, defensive fragility continues to undermine their efforts.
Ludogorets Balancing Quality and Fatigue
Ludogorets arrive after a strong but ultimately frustrating Europa League performance against PAOK, where a late goal denied them a positive result. The physical and mental demands of that match are likely to influence selection, with Per-Mathias Høgmo expected to rotate his squad. Despite that, the depth and structure of the team remain well above domestic rivals. Their recent 2-0 league win away to Septemvri underlined that superiority, even if a repeat of full control may be harder to achieve this time.
