CSKA Sofia vs St Patricks Predictions

CSKA Sofia reached the Europa Conference group stages last season and it will take something special from St Patrick’s Athletic to stop them from closing in on another appearance.

CSKA were the whipping boys of a group that featured eventual quarter-finalists Bodo Glimt and winners Roma, failing to score in four of their six matches.

Their pedigree and accumulated experience could be too much for Tim Clancy’s side to overcome as they travel to Bulgaria on the back of a shock cup exit at the hands of second-tier opposition. But St Pats knocked Mura out on penalties in the previous round after two closely-fought draws.

The Slovenians also made it to the group stage last season and lightning could strike twice if they can get back to Richmond Park with the tie still alive. We’d recommend backing under 2.5 goals for this first leg, which could be a cagey affair while a 1-0 home win might be something both sides would settle for late in the game.