Football is more than just a sport in Bulgaria—it’s a way of life. One of the highlights of the Bulgarian football calendar is the fierce competition between the country’s top clubs. These matches, known as derbies, are characterized by intense rivalry, passionate fanbases, and an atmosphere that electrifies the stadium. Here’s a guide to the top Bulgarian football derbies that fans should not miss.
1. CSKA Sofia vs. Levski Sofia (The Eternal Derby)
The CSKA Sofia vs. Levski Sofia derby is arguably the most famous and intense in Bulgarian football. Known as “The Eternal Derby,” this clash between the two capital city giants is the highlight of the Bulgarian football calendar.
The rivalry between CSKA Sofia, founded in 1948, and Levski Sofia, established in 1914, goes beyond football. It’s a battle of ideologies, with CSKA traditionally associated with the military and Levski linked to the police force. The match is often a spectacle of emotions, with both teams having a rich history of domestic and international success.
These matches are always full of drama, with fans of both clubs creating a passionate atmosphere in the stands. The stakes are high, and the rivalry intensifies whenever they meet. Whether at Vasil Levski National Stadium or Bulgarian Army Stadium, this derby never fails to live up to expectations.
2. Beroe Stara Zagora vs. Slavia Sofia
While the CSKA vs. Levski Sofia clash often takes the spotlight, the Beroe Stara Zagora vs. Slavia Sofia derby is another thrilling encounter for fans. This rivalry between Beroe, a club from Stara Zagora, and Slavia Sofia, one of Bulgaria’s oldest clubs, has always produced exciting football.
Both teams have a passionate following, and their encounters are always highly anticipated. Slavia Sofia, founded in 1913, has a storied history, but Beroe has been on the rise in recent years, pushing for greater recognition in Bulgarian football. Matches between these two teams are often unpredictable, and they provide plenty of drama both on and off the field.
3. Lokomotiv Sofia vs. Slavia Sofia
The rivalry between Lokomotiv Sofia and Slavia Sofia is one of the oldest in Bulgarian football. Known as the Sofia Derby, this clash features two historic clubs based in the Bulgarian capital. Lokomotiv Sofia, founded in 1929, and Slavia Sofia, established in 1913, have faced each other numerous times in fiercely contested matches.
The Sofia Derby is marked by its intense fan rivalry and passionate support from both sides. While both teams have had varying degrees of success in Bulgarian football, their matches are often unpredictable, with a high level of physicality and intensity. The fanbases for both clubs are loyal, making the atmosphere electric during these encounters.
4. Cherno More vs. Pirin Blagoevgrad
While not as internationally renowned as some of the Sofia derbies, the rivalry between Cherno More and Pirin Blagoevgrad is a fixture for fans of Bulgarian regional football. Both clubs come from cities in western Bulgaria, with Cherno More based in Varna, on the Black Sea coast, and Pirin Blagoevgrad in the town of Blagoevgrad, located at the foot of the Pirin Mountains.
Matches between Cherno More and Pirin Blagoevgrad are full of passion, showcasing the strong local pride and intense competition between the two cities. These derbies have a distinctive atmosphere, where the rivalry is fierce, but the fans show incredible respect for the rich football history of their respective teams.
5. Sliven vs. Neftochimic Burgas
Sliven and Neftochimic Burgas have built their own passionate rivalry over the years, based in Bulgaria’s southern regions. Sliven, a club from the town of Sliven, and Neftochimic Burgas, hailing from Burgas, have created a local derby that is full of energy and competitive spirit.
This rivalry stems from the geographic proximity of the two towns, and matches between them often carry extra weight due to local pride. Fans of both teams bring their best energy to these matches, creating a high-octane atmosphere at every encounter. These derbies may not feature the top clubs in the league, but the spirit of the game and the fierce competition make them worth watching.
6. CSKA Sofia vs. Lokomotiv Sofia
Another exciting derby in Bulgarian football is the clash between CSKA Sofia and Lokomotiv Sofia. While CSKA and Levski usually dominate the capital, the rivalry between CSKA and Lokomotiv adds another layer to Sofia’s football scene.
The matches between these two teams are fierce, with both sides eager to claim bragging rights in the capital. While CSKA Sofia has traditionally been the more successful club, Lokomotiv Sofia has a strong fan base, and their encounters have provided some memorable moments in Bulgarian football.
Conclusion
Bulgarian football is home to a number of intense and thrilling derbies that never fail to deliver drama and passion. These matches are about more than just the points; they reflect deep-rooted rivalries and a history that has shaped the football culture in Bulgaria. Whether it’s the historic clash between CSKA Sofia and Levski Sofia, or the regional pride at stake in Cherno More vs. Pirin Blagoevgrad, these derbies continue to captivate fans across the country and provide unforgettable moments in Bulgarian football history.
