Petrov - take us seriously

The point won in Sofia was the eastern Europeans' fifth of the campaign so far, and Hristo Stoichkov's men currently lie third in Group G, just two points off joint leaders Romania and the Netherlands.

"There were many people across Europe who doubted our ability but after the results in our opening matches I think everyone will begin to take a serious view of us," Petrov said.

"We knew the Netherlands are a strong side but we were very well organised," he continued. "We've played with our hearts and we've got what we wanted."

And Bulgaria have a great chance to add to their already impressive points tally on Wednesday when they travel to Luxembourg.

"It's clear now that we have players who can perform very well and with little more self-confidence we can achieve much," Petrov added.