Recap
North Macedonia U21 arrive in Sofia with enormous squad problems ahead of this friendly match. Coach Stanic is unable to count on as many as 11 players, including several important members of the regular rotation:
❌ Gjorgievski
❌ Meliqi
❌ Hamza
❌ Angelov
❌ Kurtishi
❌ Ajetovikj
❌ Arizankoski
❌ Elezi
❌ Avduli
❌ Zenku
❌ Dailoski
What makes the situation even more difficult is the fact that at least six or seven of these absences are considered key players for this generation, which significantly reduces the overall quality and depth of the squad.
Bulgaria U21, on the other hand, come into this match with a much more stable roster. The hosts generally benefit from a stronger domestic league structure and a higher overall competitive level compared to North Macedonia U21, which is reflected in the individual quality available to the coaching staff. Their only notable absence is defender Dimitar Papazov.
Even though this is officially a friendly match, Bulgaria are expected to approach it seriously, especially at home in Sofia.