The Bulgarian champions defeated FK Baku 2-0 in the second leg of the third preliminary round of the Champions League on August 5, assuring themselves European football at least until December 2009.

Levski substitute Darko Tasevski made two vital assists, first delivering a sleek ball to  Hristo Yovov who opened the score for the hosts in the 64th minute, and then feeding another ball to Georgi Hristov who wrapped up the 2-0 victory in the 81st minute.

The match was played under torrential rain before nearly 14 000 Levski supporters.  The hosts started in a lively fashion, exerting pressure on their guests from the beginning, but FK Baku were well organised in defence and maintained their composure.

The Blues were close to a goal in the 24th minute when a sustained surge from the right saw Cedric Bardon delivering a pass to Ze Soares on the wing, who then gently tapped the ball in the middle of the box to Georgi Hristov who in a misunderstanding with Yovov managed to scramble the opportunity.

In the second half, however, Levski maintained the pressure on their hosts, until the Azerbaijan defence finally cracked.  

Levski Sofia's victory over FC Baku has guaranteed 3.56 million euro revenue in the club's budget from European participation so far.

Reaching the playoffs prior to the Champions League group stages has earned Levski 2.1 million euro, whereas from eliminating Sant Julia, and FK Baku the Blues got 130 000 euro apiece. Furthermore, the club received 200 000 euro for winning the national league.

By reaching the playoffs, Levski have also guaranteed themselves participation in the group stages of the Europa League, should they fail to make the ranks of the elite Champions League, which will bag them another one million euro.

However, should Levski Sofia manage to sneak into the Champions League, 4.5 million euro are awaiting them, plus 800 000 for every victory and 400 000 for every draw in the tournament thereafter.