The opening matchday of League C, Group C3 of the UEFA Nations League 2024-25 campaign saw Belarus and Bulgaria face off at the ZTE Aréna in Zalaegerszeg. Both teams aimed to kick off their campaigns on a strong note, but the match ended in a goalless draw. While there were flashes of brilliance, the game was largely defined by defensive efforts and a second-half red card for Bulgaria.
Belarus vs Bulgaria Head-to-Head
Historically, Belarus and Bulgaria have had close encounters, with Bulgaria slightly edging the overall results. Coming into this match, both teams were determined to secure an early advantage in the group phase. Bulgaria’s strength lay in its midfield creativity, while Belarus relied on a solid defense to prevent any major chances for the opposition.
Belarus vs Bulgaria Lineups
Here is the Belarus vs Bulgaria lineups today (Sep 5, 2024)
Belarus Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Lapoukhov
- Defenders: Volkov, Martynovich, Kaplenko, Pechenin
- Midfielders: Zabelin, Yablonski, Selyava, Antilevski, Kireev
- Forward: Shikavka
Bulgaria Starting XI (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: Mitov
- Defenders: V. Popov, Petkov, Antov, F. Krastev
- Midfielders: Gruev, I. Minchev, F. Krastev
- Forwards: Kirilov, Kolev, Despodov
Belarus vs Bulgaria First Half
Both teams started the game cautiously, with Belarus looking to control possession early on. The first real chance came in the 16th minute when Bulgaria’s Despodov forced a save from Belarusian goalkeeper Lapoukhov. Belarus responded with an effort of their own, as Antilevski missed the target in the 43rd minute. The half ended goalless, with neither side able to break the deadlock despite Bulgaria slightly dominating possession.
Belarus vs Bulgaria Key Events in the First Half:
- 16’ – Despodov (Bulgaria) shot on target saved by Lapoukhov (Belarus).
- 43’ – Antilevski (Belarus) missed a chance.
- +2 Added time, half ends 0-0.
Belarus vs Bulgaria Second Half
The second half saw more intensity as both teams pushed for a breakthrough. Bulgaria looked to capitalize on set pieces, with multiple free-kick opportunities. However, the game’s major turning point came in the 74th minute when Bulgaria’s Filip Krastev was shown a second yellow card, reducing his side to 10 men. Despite this advantage, Belarus could not find the back of the net, as their attacking efforts were often thwarted by the Bulgarian defense.
Belarus vs Bulgaria Key Events in the Second Half:
- 74’ – Red Card for F. Krastev (Bulgaria) after receiving his second yellow.
- 76’-77’ – Mitov (Bulgaria) made two crucial saves to deny Belarus from scoring.
- 90’+1 – Iliev (Bulgaria) received a yellow card for time-wasting.
Belarus vs Bulgaria Stats Overview
- Possession: Belarus 44% – 56% Bulgaria
- Total Attempts: Belarus 8 – 17 Bulgaria
- Shots on Target: Belarus 2 – 8 Bulgaria
- Yellow Cards: Belarus 2 – 5 Bulgaria
- Red Cards: Bulgaria 1
Belarus vs Bulgaria Timeline
- 29′: F. Krastev (Bulgaria) shown a yellow card for a foul.
- 56′: Petkov (Bulgaria) booked for a late tackle.
- 72′: Yablonski (Belarus) shown a yellow for a foul on F. Krastev.
- 74′: Red Card: F. Krastev (Bulgaria) sent off for a second booking.
- 89′: I. Minchev (Bulgaria) shown a yellow for time-wasting.
- 90’+1′: Iliev (Bulgaria) booked for a tactical foul.
Belarus vs Bulgaria Fouls and Discipline
Belarus committed 13 fouls, while Bulgaria committed 17, reflecting the physical nature of the match. The red card for Bulgaria significantly impacted their ability to attack in the latter stages of the game.
Belarus vs Bulgaria Man of the Match
Despite the goalless draw, Bulgaria’s goalkeeper Mitov was the standout performer. His crucial saves, especially in the second half, kept Bulgaria in the game after they were reduced to 10 men.
Full-Time Result: Belarus 0-0 Bulgaria
Belarus vs Bulgaria Impact on Points Table
With both teams sharing the spoils, they each secured a point in Group C3. However, Bulgaria will need to work on their discipline as they move forward in the competition, with the red card potentially impacting future games. Belarus, on the other hand, will be disappointed not to have capitalized on their numerical advantage.
A match that started with promise ended in frustration for both teams as neither could find a decisive breakthrough. Bulgaria’s 10-man defense proved resilient, while Belarus will rue their missed opportunities. Both sides will now look ahead to their next fixtures, knowing they must improve if they hope to advance in the Nations League.
