Derry City head into Thursday’s Europa League second leg at the Brandywell with a fresh boost from winger Darragh Burns and striker Liam Boyce, hoping to reverse a 3‑2 first‑leg defeat to CSKA Sofia. The club sits second in the Premier Division, 63 points from 36 games, riding a five‑match winning streak.

Who are the new faces?

Burns, 23, arrived permanently from Grimsby Town after a loan spell, adding over 70 League of Ireland appearances with St Patrick’s Athletic and Shamrock Rovers. Alongside him, Christy Grogan, Ellis Chapman, Nick Twisk and Tom Norcott have joined the squad, expanding training options. Boyce praised the influx, noting that competition sharpens the team and gives manager Andy Mitchell more tactical flexibility.

Why does Boyce’s confidence matter?

The former Northern Ireland forward netted in Sofia and highlighted Mitchell’s set‑piece work, saying the coach “gives us the licence to create things ourselves.” Boyce believes having Adam O’Reilly and Brandon Fleming back for Thursday adds quality; both have been “brilliant all season.” Their return, combined with the new signings, creates a selection dilemma for the gaffer, a sign of depth that could tip the tie in Derry’s favour.

How does recent form influence the tie?

Derry City’s domestic surge – 52 goals scored, 39 conceded (+13 goal difference) and a recent 1‑0 win over Shamrock Rovers on 31 January 2026 – fuels belief. The club’s recent form (WWWWW) shows confidence, and the squad’s morale is high after climbing to 2nd place, just three points behind league leaders Shamrock Rovers.

What’s at stake for the Brandywell?

A win would not only level the aggregate but also give Derry City a historic European night at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium. Boyce expects a “special night,” and the team’s preparation, including set‑piece drills and tactical tweaks, aims to exploit the home advantage. If they can overturn the deficit, the club could secure its first European knockout‑stage victory, a milestone for the Candystripes.

What comes next after Thursday?

Should Derry progress, the focus will shift back to the domestic title race, where they sit just three points shy of Shamrock Rovers. Maintaining momentum from a European comeback could propel them further up the table, keeping the title chase alive as the season heads into its decisive phase.