Europa League

Basel 3-1 CSKA Sofia: Alexander Frei Fires Swiss Ahead Of Army Men

Bulgarians roll over in face of Swiss pressure...

Nov 5, 2009 8:26:07 PM

Euro 2008 Stadiums - St. Jakob-Park - Basel (Mexsport)

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Euro 2008 Stadiums - St. Jakob-Park - Basel (Mexsport)

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Basel 3-1 CSKA Sofia - Lineups/Stats

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Basel took a massive step towards the Round of 32 after thrashing CSKA Sofia, who are now all but eliminated from the Europa League.

After a slow start, Basel enjoyed a somewhat fortuitous opener as Marcos Gelabert's long-range effort took a wicked deflection past Zdravko Chavdarov.

Just before the break, Alexander Frei scored from the spot after being brought down in the area by Aleksander Brankov, and the hosts seemed to be dominating.

However, Todor Yanchev equalised on the hour mark with an acrobatic effort after a corner, but Frei restored the two goal advantage shortly afterwards as the Bulgarian defence stood and watched.

CSKA now have just one point and need a miracle to progress, while Basel can secure safe passage with a win at Roma in the next matchday.

Albert Dumont, Goal.com