After 9 years, Bulgaria has its Most Modern Football Venue

In Blagoevgrad & Beyond , World Overview
09/05/2023 16:00
By Vasil Paskov
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3,425 – that is the exact number of days that fans of the oldest football club in Bulgaria, Botev Plovdiv, had to wait to attend the first match at the new “Hristo Botev” Stadium.

The duel between Botev Plovdiv and Levski Sofia took place on April 29 and was attended by approximately 18,000 fans. Breathtaking choreography, drone show, and fireworks guaranteed the tremendous atmosphere on Bulgaria’s most modern football venue.

The atmosphere before the start of the game. Photo by Vasil Paskov

The warm-up for the event started at noon with a concert outside of the stadium, starring D2, Deo, Stefan Valdobrev, and other popular Bulgarian artists. The mascot of Botev Plovdiv – the big yellow canary – was also there to make sure that fans had a good time before the start of the game.

Deo and the mascot of Botev Plovdiv. Photo courtesy of Botev Plovdiv

Prior to the game, Botev Plovdiv paid respect to several of their legendary players from the past. Every one of them received a plaque of honor for their contribution to the club and loud ovations from the standings.

Before the first whistle from the referee, Botev Plovdiv fans displayed their well-prepared choreography. The fans of both teams set an incredible mood in the new stadium with unstoppable songs and chants during the 90 minutes of the game. Fireworks and drone show during the second half of the game, only spiced up the atmosphere, making the show even better for everybody on “Hristo Botev.”

Fireworks at the beginning of the second half. Photo courtesy of Botev Plovdiv

The main event was the disappointment of the night. Only five Bulgarians were in the line-ups from the first minute of the game. The derby ended in a 0:1 victory for the away side, with Ricardinho scoring the game's only goal during the second half.

Battle during the first half of the game. Photo courtesy of Botev Plovdiv

Low-quality football, only four shots on target, and a lack of creativity marked the game, leaving a bitter taste of disappointment for the passionate home fans. That was the fifteenth loss for Botev Plovdiv in only 28 league games this season. Currently, the team is sitting very close to the relegation zone. That was the reason why the manager Bruno Baltazar and the players in yellow and black received boos and insults after the game, putting an unfortunate end to one very exciting day for Plovdiv.