Thousands of people showed their support at Sofia's national stadium on Thursday for Bulgaria football great Stiliyan Petrov, who was recently diagnosed with acute leukemia.
In a tribute to Petrov's shirt number, they gathered on April 19 at 1900 local time, wearing shirts with No. 19 for a 19-minute event that was broadcast live on TV and radio.
In an audio address recorded in London and played at the stadium, the Aston Villa captain thanked fans for their ''incredible love'' and ''invaluable support'' at a hard time for him and his family.
''There are ordeals in life in which we must be stronger than ever, and I think I have enough strength and faith to cope. I do believe that, together, we will win this match, too,'' Petrov said.
The 32-year-old Petrov, who has started treatment at a London hospital, has received global support from players, fans and sports officials.
He made his 100th appearance for Bulgaria last year in a European Championship qualifier against Switzerland.
Petrov joined Villa in 2006 from Celtic and signed a four-year extension with the Birmingham club in 2009.
