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Botev Plovdiv vs Lokomotiv Sofia: prediction and odds

Bulgaria First League · Bulgaria · 21 July 2026
Botev Plovdiv logoBotev Plovdiv
1:1
1st half: 0:0
21.07.2026 19:30
Lokomotiv Sofia logoLokomotiv Sofia

Match events

43′
🟨Dimitar Kostadinov
49′
0:1Dimitar Kostadinov
C. Meotti1:1
79′
Bryan Hain🟨
84′
86′
🟨Georgi Plamenov Minchev
89′
🟨Nicholas Penev

Match statistics: Botev Plovdiv vs Lokomotiv Sofia

Botev PlovdivLokomotiv Sofia
63Ball possession, %37
15Shots6
7Shots on target3
6Corners1
6Fouls17
0Offsides1
1Yellow cards3
0Red cards0
168Attacks94
107Dangerous attacks42

💡 Match preview Botev Plovdiv vs Lokomotiv Sofia

Botev Plovdiv have looked sharp during pre-season, finishing the last campaign with a run in the Conference League group stage. The hosts boast a stronger squad than Lokomotiv Sofia and will lean on the advantage of playing at home. The capital club has traditionally struggled on the road, making them rightful underdogs for this clash. Can they grind out a result, or will the home side prove too strong?

Tactical Analysis

Botev Plovdiv

The home side featured in the Conference League group stage last season but ended the league campaign on a sour note. In the final five matchdays of the First League, they managed only one win, suffering three painful defeats and finishing eighth in the standings.

Summer preparation told a different story. Botev placed a clear emphasis on open, attacking football. Across seven friendlies, they won six, thrashing Beroe (4-0), Chernomorets 1919 (4-0), and Spartak Pleven (4-0). Their only stumble came against Etar (1-2). However, the step up to competitive football will demand far greater concentration than what was required in pre-season friendlies.

Lokomotiv Sofia

The visitors operated quietly and defensively during the off-season. Friendlies brought a goalless draw with Teuta, a 3-3 draw with Dukagjini, and a narrow 2-1 victory over Kosovan side Drita. This squad knows how to sit deep and counter, and they will look to cause problems for the favourites.

History, however, weighs heavily against them on the road. Lokomotiv ended last season with a disastrous away run, losing six consecutive matches. While the opposition was often strong, they also suffered a shocking 3-0 defeat to a modest Spartak side.

Tournament Motivation

Botev Plovdiv, in front of their own fans, are purely focused on victory. They want to make amends for their poor spring finish and immediately thrust themselves into contention for a Championship Group spot. Lokomotiv Sofia, facing a difficult away trip, would be satisfied with a pragmatic draw. Expect the visitors to heavily prioritise a sticky, defensive approach.

Squad Situation

Botev’s backline has undergone changes following the departure of right-back Minkov and experienced centre-back Conte. Left-back Baloyannis has also left. In response, the club has signed Nedele from Ludogorets and Milanov from Dinamo Bucharest, moves that should significantly boost creative output in central midfield.

The capital club has refreshed its flanks and defensive midfield. Left winger Raposo, right-backs Ali and Lagundzic all left on free transfers. The new arrivals are also free agents: centre-back Kaloyan Kostov, left winger Nikolay Penev, and left winger Medfai. Kostov is tasked with solidifying the defence, while Penev and Medfai add pace out wide. The revamped flank structure in Sofia looks capable and competitive.

Referee

No information provided in the source material.

Predicted Lineups

Botev Plovdiv:

  • (Formation and personnel not explicitly stated in source)

Lokomotiv Sofia:

  • (Formation and personnel not explicitly stated in source)

Prediction and Bet

Match Prediction: Botev Plovdiv to Win at 1.77

The hosts possess a stronger squad and have demonstrated an ability to attack with purpose. They won six of seven pre-season friendlies. At home, Botev won three of their final six league matches at their own stadium last season. Lokomotiv, conversely, were poor on the road and that trend is likely to continue. The club has suffered seven defeats in their last nine official matches. We do not expect a confident performance from them here. The selection is a Botev Plovdiv victory at odds of 1.77. We estimate the probability of this outcome at 55%.

Total Goals Prediction: Over 2.5 at 1.82

Botev consistently pushed forward last season, with an average total of 2.6 goals per game in the First League. Lokomotiv also created numerous chances at one end while making plenty of defensive mistakes at the other. Their matches averaged 2.8 goals. We expect both teams to avoid a cagey stalemate. The selection is over 2.5 total goals at odds of 1.82. We estimate the probability of this outcome at 56%.

Match odds Botev Plovdiv vs Lokomotiv Sofia

Result (1X2)

X3.6811.7424.55

Double chance

1X1.18X22.04121.26

Both teams to score

No1.98Yes1.72

Over

11.0221.3532.2644.558.80.51.011.51.222.51.83.52.834.55.15

Under

18.122.8331.5341.1451.010.59.11.53.542.51.963.51.334.51.1

Handicap 1

01.2711.02-12.29-24.81.51.01-1.52.86-2.55.5

Handicap 2

03.1511.5721.12-18.31.51.332.51.09-1.59.1

Correct score

0:090:1130:2261:07.11:16.551:214.251:3412:08.42:17.92:214.252:3433:013.753:113.53:2254:0294:128

Predictions for Botev Plovdiv vs Lokomotiv Sofia

HO Halima Obiora Under 2.5odds 2.08 Won

I'm expecting a high-scoring game here. Both teams have shown they can find the net, and the defensive setups don't inspire much confidence. The attacking players are in form, and the pace of the match should open up plenty of chances. I’m confidently backing over 2.5 goals, and wouldn’t be surprised if we see three or more in total.

NA Ngozi Abdullahi Result: 1odds 1.87 Lost

I predict the home team will win this match by a narrow margin.

SO Sani Olawale Team 1 over 1.5odds 1.71 Lost

I'm confident Botev Plovdiv will come out with a clear intent to win at home, and not just any win—a dominant one. The team's form and home advantage give them a strong edge to control the match and put away their opponent convincingly. Expect them to push hard from the start and secure a comfortable victory.

JA Joseph Amadi Correct score 2:1odds 8.10 Lost

I predict the home team will win. They have a strong record at their stadium and are in better form than the visitors. The away side has struggled on the road recently, so I’m confident the hosts will take all three points.

SO Sani Okoro Result: 1odds 1.79 Lost

I'm confident in my forecast. The evidence points clearly to the outcome I've outlined, and I have no reason to doubt my analysis. We'll see it play out exactly as I've predicted.

YE Yusuf Emenike Under 0.5odds 8.80 Lost

I am confident there will be no goals today. The defensive setups and lack of attacking urgency make a scoreless outcome the most likely scenario.

FO Faith Ojo Team 1 over 1.5odds 1.77 Lost

I’m predicting that Botev will score at least 2 goals against their opponent. Their attack has been sharp lately, and the matchup favors them creating multiple clear chances. The opposition’s defense has shown vulnerabilities, especially under pressure, which Botev can exploit. This bet is based on consistent offensive form and a favorable tactical setup.

GO Gloria Oni Result: 1odds 1.78 Lost

I’m predicting a home win. The team’s recent form and strong record on home turf give me confidence—they’ve consistently outperformed on defense and generated more scoring chances in familiar surroundings. The opponent, meanwhile, struggles on the road and has key players doubtful. This matchup heavily favors the hosts, so I’m locking in this bet.

DA David Abdullahi Over 2.5odds 1.81 Lost

I am confident that this match will feature at least three goals.

YA Yusuf Afolabi Both teams to score — Noodds 1.98 Lost

I predict this outcome. My reasoning is straightforward.

CO Chibuzo Olaniyan Over 2.5odds 1.80 Lost

I'm predicting at least 3 goals in this match. Time to see if I'm right.

AA Amina Adebayo Correct score 2:1odds 7.90 Lost

I predict Botev Plovdiv will defeat Lokomotiv Sofia with a precise 2-1 scoreline in the Bulgarian First League. The hosts have the edge in form and home advantage, and I'm confident they'll secure the win.

VI Victor Igwe Corners: Result: 2odds 3.15 Lost

I'm confident Botev Plovdiv will take the win here. They're the stronger side on paper and have the home advantage, which gives them a clear edge. Lokomotiv Sofia have been inconsistent, and I don't see them holding up against Botev's attacking pressure. This bet is going to hit.

RA Rita Akintola Result: 1odds 1.73 Lost

I’m backing Botev Plovdiv to take all three points against Lokomotiv Sofia. Botev’s home form has been strong, and they’ve consistently created chances at Stadion Hristo Botev, while Lokomotiv have struggled to keep clean sheets on the road. The hosts’ attacking momentum and defensive solidity at home give them a clear edge in this matchup.

The visitors’ recent away performances lack the discipline needed to contain Botev’s pressure, especially in the second half. I expect the home side to control the tempo and find the breakthrough before the hour mark. Lock in Botev to win.

YO Yetunde Olawale Result: 1odds 1.77 Lost

I am confident that Botev Plovdiv will win this match. They have the stronger squad and home advantage, and their recent form has been impressive. The opponent simply lacks the quality to challenge them effectively.

DA Deborah Akintola Result: 1odds 1.77 Lost

Botev has been playing very well recently, and I'm confident their strong form will carry forward. I'm betting on them to keep up the momentum and deliver a solid performance.

NO Nnamdi Okonkwo Correct score 0:0odds 8.90 Lost

I'm confident today's match will end 0–0. Both teams will struggle to break each other down, leading to a stalemate.

SO Segun Ogunleye Over 1.5odds 1.23 Won

I’m predicting that the S&P 500 will close 2025 above 6,500. The bull case is straightforward: corporate earnings are still growing, AI investment is driving productivity gains, and the Fed is likely done hiking rates. Even if inflation stays a bit sticky, the market has already priced in a slower cutting cycle. The risk of a recession is low, and valuations, while elevated, are supported by strong profit margins and cash flows. I don’t see a catalyst for a major correction this year.

AO Ayodele Ojo Both teams to score — Yesodds 1.74 Won

I'm confident both teams will push for a win, which means they'll be focused on scoring. I'm taking both teams to score—yes.

SN Sani Nwachukwu Result: 1odds 1.77 Lost

I’m betting on the home team to win on the green grass. Their strong record at this venue gives them a clear edge, and I see no reason to doubt their form here. The visitors have struggled away from home, so this feels like a straightforward call.

KA Kingsley Abubakar Double chance: 1Xodds 1.19 Won

I am confident that Plov will not lose. His recent form and tactical discipline give him a clear edge over the opponent, and the matchup heavily favors his style of play. There is no reason to expect an upset here.

JO Joy Onyeka Correct score 2:1odds 7.90 Lost

I confidently predict that the home team will win. They have the clear advantage of playing on their own turf, which gives them a significant edge in both form and momentum.

SS Segun Suleiman Correct score 2:1odds 7.90 Lost

I based this prediction on a thorough analysis of team form, head-to-head records, and current performance metrics. Given these factors, I'm confident this is the most likely outcome.

IO Ikechukwu Okafor Result: 1odds 1.77 Lost

I'm backing Botev as the clear favorite here. Their recent form and home advantage put them in a strong position to secure the win.

UA Usman Abubakar Result: 1odds 1.77 Lost

I predict Lokomotiv will lose this away match. They have been performing very poorly on the road, and I don't see that changing here. Their struggles away from home are a clear weakness that the opponent can exploit.

YN Yemi Nwachukwu Result: 1odds 1.76 Lost

I'm confident the hosts will dominate. They're far more stable at home and consistently create more dangerous scoring chances.

VA Victor Afolabi Result: 1odds 1.76 Pending

I spent a long time searching for a skilled forecaster, cycling through more than a dozen tipsters before I finally found someone reliable. I've been working with him for a month now, and I've placed 18 exact score predictions—every single one has been spot on.

CO Chinedu Olaniyan Team 2 over 1odds 2.14 Void

Lokomotiv has consistently scored against Botev in the past, and I see no reason for that to change today. I'm confident they'll find the net again.

YA Yusuf Akintola Under 2.5odds 1.96 Won

I predict that goals will be hard to come by for both teams. The defensive setups are solid, and recent form suggests a low-scoring affair. I'm confident this match will see under 2.5 total goals.

DO Daniel Ojo Both teams to score — Yesodds 1.72 Won

I’m predicting that both teams will score in this match. Both sides have shown attacking intent in recent games, and defensive gaps are likely to be exposed. The odds reflect a high probability, and I’m confident that each team will find the net at least once.

SS Suleiman Sani Result: 1odds 1.76 Lost

I'm picking Botev today. Their recent form and home advantage give me full confidence they'll get the job done in this matchup.

CL Chinedu Lawal Handicap 1 (-1.5)odds 2.90 Lost

I'm backing the home side here. They're fully capable of getting the job done, and the visitors are weak on the road.

KT Kelechi Tanko Result: 1odds 1.73 Lost

I believe Botev will win at home. Their strong form on their own turf gives them a clear edge, and the opposition has struggled in away matches recently.

IO Ibrahim Okoro Correct score 2:1odds 7.90 Lost

I’m predicting a 2-1 final score. This bet is based on the teams’ recent form and head-to-head history, where close, high-scoring matches are common. Both sides have strong attacks but leaky defenses, making a 2-1 result the most likely outcome.

DA Daniel Amadi Under 2.5odds 1.98 Won

I am betting on under 2.5 goals in this match. Both teams have consistently failed to score in recent games, and their defensive priorities make a high-scoring affair very unlikely. I expect a tight, low-scoring contest where chances will be few and far between.

ON Obinna Nnaji Over 3.5odds 2.80 Lost

I see the home team as clear favorites here, and I expect them to capitalize on their scoring opportunities. They'll push hard to convert as many chances as possible, making this a high-probability bet on their attacking output.

AN Aliyu Nwosu Result: Xodds 3.68 Won

I’m backing the draw between Botev Plovdiv and Lokomotiv Sofia. Both sides have shown defensive solidity recently, and their head-to-head record is full of tight, low-scoring affairs. With neither team eager to take risks early on, I expect a cagey match that ends all square.

CL Chidinma Lamido Corners: Under 9.5odds 1.92 Won

I'm betting that the total number of corner kicks in this match will be under 10.5. The reason is simple: both teams tend to play a more direct, defensive style that limits prolonged attacks and wide play, which typically results in fewer corners. Recent matches for these sides have consistently stayed below this threshold, and I don't see a tactical reason for that to change today.

DN Dele Nwosu Under 2.5odds 1.96 Won

I'm predicting this match will be low-scoring and likely end in a draw or a narrow win, but I'm leaning towards under 2.5 goals. Both teams have been unproductive in attack recently, with poor finishing and a lack of creativity in the final third. Their defensive records are solid, and neither side will want to take risks early. I expect a cagey affair with few clear chances.

DE Dele Eze Result: 1odds 1.74 Lost

I am confident Botev Plovdiv will win today. They have had a strong pre-season and are playing at home, which gives them a clear edge.

Match poster

Botev Plovdiv vs Lokomotiv Sofia — odds