Ghanaian winger Bernard Tekpetey was on target as Ludogorets beat Botev Vratsa 2-1 to make it three wins from three at the start of the Bulgarian league season.
The champions edged another tight evening in Razgrad to keep their 100 per cent record intact.
Tekpetey opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, timing his run well before finishing clinically to put the hosts in control. Just before half-time, Ruan Cruz doubled the lead, sending Ludogorets into the break with a deserved 2-0 advantage. Botev Vratsa, however, refused to lie down and kept the game alive after the interval.
The visitors pulled one back in the 72nd minute through Preslav Borukov, who headed in from a left-wing cross to set up a nervy finish. Ludogorets managed the closing stages with more care, helped by fresh energy off the bench.
Brazilian forward Natan Fernandes came on for his official debut and impressed with several bright touches in attack. There was also a welcome return for Deroy Duarte, playing his first club minutes since a standout World Cup with Cape Verde, where he even scored against Argentina.
With the win, Ludogorets stay firmly among the early pacesetters. Next up, they visit Cherno More in Varna on 9 August.
