Bulgaria Overtakes Russia in UEFA Ranking After Historic Success of Clubs

Progress in European Tournaments - National Joy

Bulgaria marked a significant rise in the UEFA club coefficients ranking, after Levski and Arda qualified for the playoff round in the Conference League. Victories over Sabah (Azerbaijan) and Kauno (Lithuania) brought our country to 29th place with a coefficient of 18.375, displacing Russia, whose teams have been eliminated from participation in the last 4 seasons due to the military situation in Ukraine.

Most Successful Participation in 15 Years

  • For the first time since 2009, three Bulgarian teams are a step away from group stages in Europe.
  • Ludogorets faces Shkendija (Republic of North Macedonia) for the main phase in Europa League.
  • Levski plays against AZ Alkmaar (Netherlands), and Arda – against Rakow (Poland) for a place in the Conference League groups.

Coefficients, Consequences and Ambitions

The achievement of our clubs not only brings prestige but also provides long-term benefits for Bulgarian football – better distribution of quotas for future European tournaments and more opportunities to showcase local talents. The coefficient of 18.375 is a signal that Bulgarian teams are on the rise and deserve a new European stage.

Expected Playoff Battles

  • Ludogorets vs. Shkendija – Europa League playoff
  • Levski vs. AZ Alkmaar – Conference League playoff
  • Arda vs. Rakow – Conference League playoff

Bulgarian fans are expecting new successes and hope our teams will bring more reasons for pride in our football on the international stage.