SOFIA (Interstat) — PFK Slavia Sofia defeated its city rival Septemvri Sofia 2-1 on Wednesday in a Bulgarian First League match at Stadion Aleksandar Shalamanov, spoiling Septemvri’s season opener.

Lazar Marin put Slavia ahead in the eighth minute, finishing a quick build-up from the right flank. Septemvri equalized in the 50th minute when Boris Todorov slotted home from close range after a scramble inside the penalty area. The match appeared headed for a draw until Dominik Ivkič struck in the 87th minute, collecting a pass at the top of the box and curling a low shot inside the far post to give Slavia the victory.

The win gave Slavia a 1-0 record this season, while Septemvri dropped to 0-1. Both teams played their opening fixture of the league campaign. Slavia dominated possession for much of the contest, but Septemvri created several chances on the counterattack, testing Slavia goalkeeper Ivan Dzhugov with three shots on target.

The home side took control early, pressing high and forcing turnovers in midfield. Marin’s goal came after a sustained period of pressure, with the forward finding space behind the back line. Septemvri grew into the match after halftime, and Todorov’s equalizer gave the visitors momentum. Slavia responded by pushing forward, and Ivkič’s late winner rewarded their persistence.

Interstat’s game simulator had projected a final score of PFK Slavia Sofia 1, Septemvri Sofia 1. Interstat’s ELO system had projected PFK Slavia Sofia with a 55.90 percent probability to win.