Ludogorets Carves a New Chapter with Historic Win in Malmo

In a match that will be etched in the annals of Bulgarian football history, PFC Ludogorets 1945 Razgrad achieved a groundbreaking victory against Malmo FF, securing a 2-1 win in the Europa League group stage on the evening of 24 September 2025. This triumph marks the first time a Bulgarian team has claimed victory on Swedish soil in European competition, a feat that underscores Ludogorets' rising stature on the international stage.

The match began with a flurry of activity, setting the tone for an intense encounter. The Bulgarian side surged ahead early, courtesy of Petar Stanic, who coolly converted a penalty in the 8th minute. The penalty was awarded following a foul on Edvin Kurtulus, a testament to Ludogorets' aggressive and relentless offensive strategy. With their confidence bolstered, Ludogorets continued to press forward and were soon rewarded again. Erick Bile doubled their lead in the 23rd minute, capitalizing on Malmo's defensive vulnerabilities and showcasing Ludogorets' prowess in capitalizing on goal-scoring opportunities.

Throughout the first half, the Bulgarian side demonstrated a masterclass in maintaining pressure, creating several promising chances that kept the Malmo defense on edge. Caio Vidal nearly extended the lead further, his shot ricocheting off the crossbar, leaving the Swedish side visibly rattled. Malmo's goalkeeper, Robin Olsen, despite making crucial saves, including two headers from Dinis Almeida around the 60-minute mark, found himself at the heart of criticism for errors that contributed to the team's downfall.

As the match progressed into the latter stages, Malmo sought to claw back into contention. Their persistence paid off in the 78th minute when Jonsen found the back of the net with a deflected goal, narrowing the margin and reigniting hopes of a comeback. However, Ludogorets' defense held firm, with a memorable clearance off the line by Stanic, ensuring that the visitors left Sweden with all three points.

This victory not only provides Ludogorets with an ideal start to their Europa League campaign but also enhances their reputation in European competitions. The win serves as a statement of intent, reflecting the club's growth and ambition to challenge more seasoned European adversaries. Although direct quotes from the players and coaches were unavailable, the sentiments echo loudly through their performance on the pitch.

As Ludogorets look forward to their upcoming fixtures, this historic achievement in Malmo sets a promising precedent, inspiring both players and fans alike. The journey ahead in the Europa League promises to be an intriguing one, with Ludogorets now firmly on the radar of their European counterparts.