Dimitar Mitov blasted by Bulgaria boss for conceding 'absurd goals' as Aberdeen sweating over crocked keeper
The shot-stopper was taken off injured at half time against the Republic of Ireland and he felt the wrath of his manager
Injured Aberdeen keeper Dimitar Mitov has come under fire from his own national coach for his performance in Bulgaria’s Nations League play-off defeat to Republic of Ireland.
Unhappy Ilian Iliev criticised his No. 1, who went off at half-time with a shoulder injury, for conceding “two absurd goals” in their 2-1 first-leg home defeat.
Bulgaria had gone ahead through a Marin Petkov goal but then lost two first half goals to Finn Aziz and then Matt Doherty.
Mitov was caught out of position by a deep cross for Aziz’s strike and Doherty beat him as he came off his line for the second, which led to the collision and the injury that saw him replaced.
Iliev confirmed: “Dimitar Mitov had shoulder pain and we had to replace him. He conceded two easy goals, which should not be allowed at this level.
“These are two kicked balls. We conceded two absurd goals that ruined our game. We got into their battle mode, which is not our strength.”
Bulgaria will now need to win in Dublin at the weekend if they are to turn their play-off around.
Iliev added: "We will try to react for the rematch. We will see who is healthy. We will react and try to recover.”
It remains to be seen if Mitov will be available for that game. It also leaves Aberdeen in a sweat because their Bulgarian has just come back from injury and Jimmy Thelin’s side are pushing for European qualification and Scottish Cup success.
The Dons return to domestic action against Motherwell a week on Saturday. Aberdeen's medical and coaching staff will be waiting for a full assessment of Mitov's injury.
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