Vice President of the Bulgarian Football Union Atanas Furnadzhiev identified Ireland as the favorite in the upcoming clash with Bulgaria in the League of Nations, Topsport reported, citing Darik Radio.
Nevertheless, he is convinced that the "lions" will give their maximum in search of a positive result.
"Ireland is undoubtedly the favorite. Their team is valued at over 200 million euros, and in terms of the class of the players, the advantage is on their side. But I have always said - when an athlete puts on the national jersey, he must give it his all. Our boys are ready to fight for victory," said Furnadzhiev.
He also predicted strong support from the stands at the "Hristo Botev" stadium in Plovdiv for the first match on March 20.
"The stadium is smaller, but this creates a great football atmosphere. I expect at least 10,000 spectators to come and support the team," added the BFU vice president to Darik radio.
Furnadzhiev announced that he personally is "for" reduction of teams in the First League.
"There will be more serious criteria for licensing. I don't think that the heating of the fields is such a serious problem. There will certainly be changes in the licensing of the teams", commented Furnadzhiev.
"The reduction of teams is again related to the working group. Let it finish its work. I personally am in favor of reducing the teams in the First League, but this is a decision of a collective body, so I cannot commit to it. My personal opinion is that we should also reduce the teams", he added.