Valentin Iliev says Panathinaikos loss unrelated to Levski derby
PFC CSKA Sofia sporting director Valentin Iliev stated the Conference League defeat to Panathinaikos FC will not affect the upcoming derby against PFC Levski Sofia.
PFC CSKA Sofia suffered a 1-2 defeat against Panathinaikos FC in a Conference League third-round match played in Athens. Following the result, club officials addressed how the European fixture relates to domestic commitments.
Valentin Iliev, who serves as the sporting director of PFC CSKA Sofia, spoke publicly after the loss in Athens on November 6, 2026. He specifically addressed concerns regarding the team's preparation for their next domestic opponent.
Iliev stated that the defeat to Panathinaikos FC will have no connection to the upcoming derby against PFC Levski Sofia. This assertion indicates the club intends to treat the two competitions separately despite the recent setback in Greece.
Panathinaikos midfielder Kings Kangwa risks missing between one and three matches following his sending off in the derby win over AEK Athens, pending the referee's report and disciplinary code application.
Levski Sofia midfielders Serginho and Akram Bouras are doubtful for the upcoming derby against CSKA Sofia, while Asen Mitkov and Radoslav Kirilov are ruled out.
Panathinaikos
CSKA Sofia
Levski Sofia
