NEC Nijmegen vs Levski Sofia - UEFA Europa League

NEC Nijmegen prepare to host Levski Sofia at Goffertstadion on October 15, 2026, with both sides eager to assert their credentials and claim a result that could define their UEFA Europa League season. Michael Carrick spoke to the media in Spain on Monday ahead of Man United's Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid.

In the UEFA Europa League table, NEC Nijmegen currently occupy 36th and Levski Sofia sit 27th, and the context adds genuine weight to what is already an intriguing fixture. NEC Nijmegen are mired in a difficult campaign, DDLLD over their last five and a paltry win rate of 0% painting a bleak picture. On the road the visitors have looked devoid of inspiration, WLLLD in their last five and a win rate of 0% that makes for sobering reading. The contrast in attacking output — 0 versus 0 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. At Hull, you could argue they had a striker who cost them points.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. NEC Nijmegen will look to impose their style on home soil, while Levski Sofia are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. Tottenham have changed their approach and are spending big on players who already know the Premier League.

When T. Guddal is on the pitch — 2 goals to his name this term — moments of magic are never far away, and the UEFA Europa League's top scorer will be central to how this one unfolds. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. But this only highlights the gulf between Van Hecke and every other defender in the Premier League even more.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. Levski Sofia look well-equipped to take the points on the road, with a 1-2 victory well within their reach. With positions in the UEFA Europa League table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Man United sent verdict on Luke Shaw's actions and Rodrigo Bentancur red in Tottenham draw.