Derry City were hit with a €20,000 fine and a suspended partial stadium closure after crowd trouble marred their Europa League qualifier against CSKA Sofia at the Brandywell last week. The Candystripes sit second in the Premier Division with 63 points from 36 games, just three behind leaders Shamrock Rovers.

What happened at the Brandywell?

Referee Jasmin Sabotic halted the Europa League qualifier between Derry City and CSKA Sofia in the 58th minute after travelling supporters invaded the pitch. Some home fans also made it onto the field, forcing players off for over ten minutes. Derry had fought back to level the tie 3-3 on aggregate before the break, but lost 5-3 after the restart. The club now prepare to face HNK Rijeka in the Europa Conference League next week.

Why it matters for Derry City

The €20,000 fine and suspended partial closure add pressure on Stephen O’Donnell’s side as they push for a top-two finish. Derry’s recent form stands at five straight wins, including a 1-0 victory over Shamrock Rovers on January 31st. Their attack has scored 52 goals this season while conceding 39, leaving them with a +13 goal difference. The club’s next challenge is a two-legged tie against HNK Rijeka, a step up from domestic competition.

CSKA Sofia face multiple sanctions

CSKA Sofia were banned from selling tickets for their Europa League trip to Qarabag and hit with a €30,000 fine. The Bulgarian club also received a €5,000 fine for a staff member’s conduct, a separate €20,000 penalty for racist and discriminatory behaviour by supporters, and a one-match spectator ban suspended for two years. Their players left the Brandywell under heavy police escort after the flare-up.

What comes next for Derry?

Derry City’s focus shifts to the Europa Conference League qualifier against HNK Rijeka. The tie offers a chance to progress in Europe, though the club must tighten security after last week’s incidents. With 63 points from 36 games, Derry remain in the hunt for second place in the Premier Division, currently three points behind Shamrock Rovers. The Candystripes’ recent run of five straight wins shows their attacking threat, but discipline will be key against Rijeka.