Bulgaria vs Georgia: A Grudge Match for Pride in World Cup 2026 Qualifiers

As the curtain falls on their respective World Cup 2026 qualifying campaigns, Bulgaria and Georgia prepare to face off in Sofia. While neither nation can progress to the finals, this isn’t just another dead rubber. It’s a clash for national pride, a chance to end a disappointing journey on a high note, and for Georgia, an opportunity to complete a historic double over the Lions.

Bulgaria’s Long Road to Redemption

For Bulgaria, the World Cup 2026 dream is once again deferred, with their last appearance dating back to 1998. This campaign has been particularly bruising, marked by a winless streak and coaching instability. Under former manager Ilian Iliev, they suffered heavy defeats, including a 3-0 loss to Spain and an identical scoreline against Georgia, ultimately leading to his departure. His successor, Aleksandar Dimitrov, has struggled to turn the tide, overseeing a further three losses with a combined scoreline of 12-1.

Their recent 2-0 defeat to Turkey extended their winless international run to a disheartening ten matches (two draws, eight losses). The Lions are desperate for a victory, their last coming against Luxembourg in the Nations League back in November 2024. A win against Georgia would not only provide a much-needed morale boost but also be their first against the Crusaders since a 4-1 friendly triumph in September 2021.

Georgia: From Euro 2024 High to World Cup Low

Georgia arrives in Sofia with a different emotional backdrop. While their World Cup journey has also ended prematurely, losing four of their five qualifiers, they recently celebrated a historic qualification for Euro 2024 – their first major tournament as an independent nation. This contrast highlights the unpredictable nature of international football.

Despite their Euro 2024 success, Willy Sagnol’s side will be keen to address their World Cup qualifying form, which includes a recent 4-0 thrashing by Spain. They’ve conceded 13 goals in the campaign, a stark reminder of the challenges at this level. However, they hold a significant advantage in this specific fixture, having convincingly beaten Bulgaria 3-0 in the reverse fixture last September, with goals from stars like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Nika Gagnidze, and Georges Mikautadze.

Away form, however, remains a concern for Georgia, with four losses in their last five away matches, excluding a 3-0 win against Armenia. Yet, their last visit to Bulgaria in June 2022 saw them clinch a spectacular 5-2 Nations League victory, showcasing their potential to perform on foreign soil.

Team News & Predicted Lineups

Bulgaria

Manager Aleksandar Dimitrov faces several squad challenges. Anton Nedyalkov, Petko Hristov, Radoslav Kirilov, and Stanislav Ivanov are all unavailable. This opens doors for players like Martin Minchev, Marin Petkov, and Ivaylo Chochev to potentially feature in the starting XI. Forward Kiril Despodov, with his 15 international goals, will be crucial in spearheading their attack.

Possible Starting Lineup (Bulgaria):

• Goalkeeper: Mitov
• Defenders: Georgiev, K. Dimitrov, Chernev, H. Petrov
• Midfielders: Krastev, Gruev, Chochev
• Forwards: Petkov, Minchev, Despodov

Georgia

Willy Sagnol also contends with injuries, with Stanislav Ivanov, Gabriel Sigua, Nika Gagnidze, and Georges Mikautadze all sidelined. Midfielder Giorgi Kochorashvili is expected to return after serving a suspension against Spain. Experienced defender Guram Kashia might step in for Saba Goglichidze, who was forced off in their last outing.

Possible Starting Lineup (Georgia):

• Goalkeeper: Mamardashvili
• Defenders: Gocholeishvili, Lochoshvili, Kabia, Mamuchashvili
• Midfielders: Kiteishvili, Mekvabishvili, Kochorashvili
• Forwards: Davitashvili, Kvaratskhelia, Zivzivadze

Match Prediction: Georgia to Edge Out Bulgaria?

While Bulgaria will be galvanized by playing on home turf, Georgia’s recent head-to-head record against the Lions is compelling. Their dominant 3-0 victory in the reverse fixture, coupled with their overall attacking prowess led by stars like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, suggests they have the edge.

Bulgaria’s extensive winless streak and defensive vulnerabilities present a significant challenge. Despite their struggles in the World Cup qualifiers, Georgia will be motivated to finish their campaign with a strong performance and build momentum for their upcoming Euro 2024 challenge. Expect a competitive match, but Georgia’s superior individual quality and recent dominance over Bulgaria might see them secure another victory.

Our Prediction: Bulgaria 1 – 2 Georgia