CSKA Sofia took a major step toward the Europa League play-offs with a commanding 3-0 away victory over Maccabi Tel Aviv, putting the Bulgarian side in a dominant position ahead of next week's return leg in Sofia.
The first match of the tie was played in Batumi, Georgia, rather than Israel because of the security situation in the region. Maccabi also had to play behind closed doors after UEFA sanctioned the club over its supporters' unauthorized use of pyrotechnics.
CSKA controlled the game from the opening whistle and rarely allowed the Israeli side to threaten. The visitors took the lead in the ninth minute when Max Ebong found the net, setting the tone for a one-sided contest.
The Bulgarian team doubled its advantage in the 30th minute through Leandro Godoy, giving CSKA a comfortable cushion before halftime. Their disciplined performance continued throughout the second half, with the defense limiting Maccabi's chances while maintaining control of possession and the tempo.
Substitute Joel Zwarts sealed the emphatic victory in stoppage time, scoring in the 90th minute to make it 3-0 and leave CSKA on the verge of advancing.
