Derry City's Thomas Stewart in action against CSKA Sofia

Derry City will have to overcome a one-goal deficit if they are to see off CSKA Sofia in the Europa League.

The Bulgarians won the first leg of the third qualifying round clash thanks to Kostadin Stoyanov's 73rd-minute goal.

He struck from the edge of the box after a flick-on from a throw was not cleared by the Derry defence.

CSKA pressed for a second goal but Derry held on and will feel they have a chance in the second leg at their own Brandywell ground on 6 August.

The League of Ireland side were a match for Sofia in the first half but came under more pressure in the second.

City goalkeeper Gerard Doherty made a superb block to deny Brazilian midfielder Marquinhos soon after the restart.

Midway through the second period Doherty tipped over an effort from Portuguese player Rui Miguel.

Then substitute striker Dormishali Saidhidzha lofted over the bar after Doherty had failed to gather.

Tam McManus and Eddie McCallion came on as Derry substitutes before Stoyanov scored the only goal.

Ciaran Martyn came on as a third sub with 10 minutes to go to help Derry secure a result which gives them a fighting chance of making the final qualifying round before the group stages.

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