PLOVDIV, Bulgaria (Interstat) — The Bulgarian Cup reignites the city’s fierce football rivalry Thursday when Lokomotiv Plovdiv hosts PFK Botev Plovdiv at Stadion Lokomotiv.

The Round of 16 clash, scheduled for Feb. 12, 2026, is the first meeting of the season between the two First League sides from Bulgaria’s second-largest city. A place in the quarterfinals is at stake.

Lokomotiv enters the derby in strong form, having thrashed Montana 4-0 in its most recent match on Dec. 14. The Smurfs are unbeaten in their last five competitive matches across all competitions, a run that includes a 1-0 victory over powerhouse PFK Levski Sofia and a 2-1 away win at Dunav Ruse.

Botev, known as The Canaries, also brings momentum, coming off a 2-0 away victory at FK Spartak 1918 Varna on Dec. 13. However, their season has been inconsistent. While they have recorded convincing wins against sides like OFK Spartak Pleven (4-0) and Dobrudzha 1919 (2-1), they have also suffered heavy defeats, including a 5-0 loss to Arda and a 1-0 loss to Lokomotiv 1929.

Historically, matches between these two are tense and closely contested. A statistical projection from Interstat forecasts a 1-1 draw, suggesting a tight affair that could be decided in extra time or penalties.

The cup competition offers a crucial path to European football and a chance at silverware, raising the stakes beyond local bragging rights. For Lokomotiv, the derby is the start of a congested period, with a league match against PFK Cherno More Varna to follow just three days later on Sunday.

Player fitness and squad rotation may play a role, but both managers are expected to field their strongest available lineups for one of Bulgarian football’s most passionate fixtures. Expect a charged atmosphere at the 10,000-seat stadium, with the home side looking to leverage its recent defensive solidity and the visitors aiming to translate their attacking flashes into a statement victory.