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Bulgaria legendary defender Trifon Ivanov dies aged 50

Trifon Ivanov (left) and Bulgarian head coach Hristo Bonev in 1997
Image: Trifon Ivanov (left) and Bulgarian head coach Hristo Bonev in 1997

Former Bulgaria defender Trifon Ivanov has died at the age of 50.

The bearded centre-back helped Bulgaria to the semi-finals of the 1994 World Cup and also played at Euro 96.

Ivanov played 77 times for his country in total and the Bulgarian Football Union called him one of the nation's best ever players when announcing his passing on Saturday.

"Trifon Ivanov will remain in the history of Bulgarian football as one of the best defenders," a statement read.

"Before being a great player, Trifon was a great man with great heart and always ready to help.

"We all mourn the loss of a true friend. Rest in peace, Trifon."

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In his club career, Ivanov played for the likes of CSKA Sofia, Real Betis and Rapid Vienna.

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