Bulgaria welcomes Spain to the iconic Vasil Levski Stadium on Thursday, September 4, 2025, with kick-off scheduled for a surprisingly civilised hour of 11:45 AM. This World Cup qualifier presents La Roja with an opportunity to bounce back after their disappointing performance in the Nations League final, while Bulgaria aims to avoid a heavy defeat and keep the scoreline respectable—especially for those of us who have had to set early alarms for this match.
Recent Form: Bulgaria and Spain
Both teams are eager to put recent challenges behind them. Bulgaria suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Ireland at the Aviva Stadium, despite holding 52% possession and netting a goal through Valentin Antov. On the other hand, Spain faced a dramatic 2-2 draw against Portugal in the Nations League final at the Allianz Arena, ultimately losing on penalties after dominating possession with 62% and recording six shots on goal, courtesy of goals from Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Oyarzabal.
Bulgaria’s Performance Overview
- Last 10 competitive matches: 2 wins, 5 draws, 3 defeats
- Average goals scored: 0.9 (3.0 shots on target per game)
- Average goals conceded: 1.4 (3.8 shots on target)
- Possession: 51.2%
- Corners: 2.6
- Top Scorer: Kiril Despodov (3 goals)
- Leading Assist Providers: Filip Krastev, Aleksandar Kolev (2 assists each)
Spain’s Performance Overview
- Last 10 competitive matches: 7 wins, 2 draws, 1 defeat
- Average goals scored: 3.3 (7.3 shots on target per game)
- Average goals conceded: 2.4 (3.9 shots on target)
- Possession: 56.4%
- Passes per match: 580.4
- Corners: 5.2
- Top Scorer: Mikel Oyarzabal (4 goals)
- Key Players: Lamine Yamal (3 goals), Pedri, Oyarzabal, Pedro Porro (2 assists each)
Match Prediction & Betting Tips
- Main Pick: Bulgaria Asian Handicap +2.25 @ –105
- Splitting the stake between +2 and +2.5 provides a safety net if Spain scores once or twice.
- Bulgaria has covered the +2.25 line in 9 consecutive home games and 17 of their last 18 at home.
- Spain hasn’t covered –2.25 in 6 straight matches and 18 of their last 20 away encounters.
- Correct Score Prediction: Bulgaria 0-1 Spain @ +600
- Other popular scorelines: 1-0 +2800, 1-1 +1200, 0-2 +425, 2-1 +4500, 0-0 +1300, 3-0 +440, 0-4 +650, 1-2 +950, 1-3 +1000.
Player Props
- Dani Olmo Under 0.5 Shots on Target [+135]
- Olmo has struggled in his last three matches and may find it challenging to trouble the keeper.
- Mikel Oyarzabal Anytime Goalscorer [–130]
- Oyarzabal has scored three goals in his last four appearances, making him a strong candidate to find the net again.
Corners Market
- Under 9.5 Total Corners [-149]
- Bulgaria’s last eight home games have not exceeded 9.5 corners, suggesting a low-traffic affair in this upcoming match.
Bet Builder Suggestion
- Bulgaria +2.25 AH [-105]
- Both Teams to Score: No [-278]
- Dani Olmo Under 0.5 Shots on Target [+135]
With a bit of luck (and perhaps a strong espresso), this bet builder covers crucial aspects without excessive risk. Just don’t forget to enjoy the match and celebrate any small wins—though you may find yourself too caught up in the action to notice!