August 15 – Ultras of Bulgaria’s CSKA Sofia stormed their home Bulgarian Army stadium after another disappointing match by their team away to Ludogorets.
The Reds lost 3-0 the derby match against the Bulgarian champions in Razgrad, and hours after the game on Sunday the supporters expressed their displeasure.
CSKA fans invaded the CSKA Sofia stadium breaking one of the goals and writing abusive graffiti over the stadium’s facade and entrances. ‘Shame and disgrace’ was inscribed on the doors of the CSKA Sofia players entrance to the stadium.
Just a few weeks ago, CSKA fired their coach Sasha Ilic due to poor results. He was replaced by Nestor El Maestro, who led the Bulgarian team a few years ago. However, under the new leadership, the team has continued with its disappointing performances in Europe and Bulgaria.
“We do not understand, do not accept and categorically condemn the attempts of confrontation with football players, the breaking and desecration of CSKA property and any kind of vandalism. Just as it is not appropriate for us to disappoint you in this way and not be at the right level for you – our great audience, it is also not appropriate for our fans to resort to such aggressive actions,” said a club statement.
After five rounds in the Bulgarian efbet League, CSKA Sofia occupies the unenviable 11th place in the table with just five points.
Last season, for long periods, CSKA Sofia fans boycotted the club.
CSKA Sofia condemned the vandalism saying: “A very tough season ended two months ago. We were at the limit, we did our best and we were very, very close to the goal. Mentally and physically, the team reached its limit. Somewhere between the end of last season and the beginning of this season, we couldn’t find our rhythm. It seems that we have not been able to recover from the exhaustion and disappointment experienced.
“However, no one at the club, from owners, management, team and staff, expected such a disappointing start to the season. Absolutely every single person in the club realizes that it does not suit CSKA to look like this and to perform far below the standards established during the long, glorious history of the greatest Bulgarian football club. The reasons are complex and are carefully analysed. We are all hurt by what is happening and ashamed of the production.
“However, this is football, and for that reason it is the biggest sporting phenomenon in the world. There are highs and lows, but through thick and thin we stay true because this is our team, our passion, our home…
“We would like to emphasize once again the fact that the disappointment at the club is huge and we take responsibility for the results. But more than once we have been in crisis and managed to come out stronger. We’ll make it again!”
Contact the writer of this story, Aleksander Krassimirov at moc.l1729741978labto1729741978ofdlr1729741978owedi1729741978sni@o1729741978fni1729741978