Botev Plovdiv claimed an emotional 1–0 victory over Slavia Sofia in the 11th round of the First Professional League, in front of a capacity crowd at Hristo Botev Stadium in Plovdiv.
A total of 18,000 Botev supporters gathered at their home ground to pay tribute to the memory of the club’s president, Iliyan Filipov. The incredible support from the stands inspired the Yellow-and-Blacks, who, driven on by their 12th man, secured an important three points.
Before kick-off, all First League clubs, the Yellow-and-Black supporters’ groups and numerous organisations laid wreaths at a designated tribute area in memory of Iliyan Filipov.
The match began with a deeply emotional performance by the Nazdravitsa Ensemble. Their rendition of the song “Ne Shte Umre” (“He Will Not Die”) brought many supporters to tears.
In the 7th minute, play was stopped as hundreds of flares lit up the stands of Hristo Botev Stadium. The atmosphere created by the Bultras was worthy of the European stage.
The decisive goal came in the opening seconds of the second half. Mauro Rodrigues won possession and played an excellent pass to Alberto Salido, who finished into an empty net to send thousands of supporters into a frenzy of celebration.
After the break, Meoti and Mascote had opportunities to extend Botev’s lead, while Ivan Minchev threatened for Slavia with a dangerous shot.
Botev Plovdiv starting XI: 29. Daniel Naumov, 82. Vladimir Mendes, 87. Simeon Petrov, 4. Nikola Soldo, 27. Brian Hein, 77. Lucas Araujo, 10. Asen Chandarov, 16. Veliyan Vidolov, 19. Mauro Rodrigues, 90. Samuel Kalu, 7. Alberto Salido.
