Borimirov stars in Levski win
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Article summary
PFC Levski Sofia 2-0 FC Sioni Bolnisi Daniel Borimirov, 36, rolled back the years as Levski defeated their Georgian opponents.
Article body
Veteran midfielder Daniel Borimirov inspired PFC Levski Sofia to a 2-0 victory against FC Sioni Bolnisi which leaves the Bulgarian title-holders in control of this UEFA Champions League second qualifying round tie.
Angelov finish
Levski, who reached the last eight of the UEFA Cup last season, took the lead after 20 minutes when Borimirov lofted a fine through-ball beyond the visitors' offside trap which Emil Angelov calmly slotted past Zurab Batiashvili. Hristo Yovov went close to doubling Levski's lead in the 29th minute, only to shoot just over the bar when well placed. Levski continued to press forward after the restart but Angelov and substitute Milan Koprivarov both missed presentable chances.
'Very careful'
Angelov played a key part in the second goal, though, as he was brought down for a penalty which Borimirov converted in the 82nd minute. Levski coach Staminir Soilov, who set a club record in his 19th match in charge in UEFA club competition, said: "We have a good record in knockout tournaments but must be very careful in the return leg. We missed several very good chances which could have decided the tie tonight." The second leg takes place a week today in Georgia.