When: 17:00 Where: UEFA Champions League Qualification, 1st Qualifying Round, Second Leg
Kairat Almaty Rafael Urazbakhtin's team achieved an important 1-1 away draw in the first leg despite only 35% ball possession. The home strength in Almaty is impressive: 11 wins in the last 12 home matches and 6 clean sheets in the last 8 encounters. The atmosphere in the Ortalyq Stadium and the home game statistics suggest a strong performance in the second leg.
Olimpija Ljubljana João Simão's team controlled the ball and had more chances in the first leg but could not use them effectively. The current away performance is mixed: no wins in the last five away games, although they lost only once. So far, the offensive breakthrough on foreign ground is missing.
Injuries Kairat will be missing Amirbek Barzabaev and Olzhas Baybek (both suspended), as well as Eldar Santana, João Paulo, and Luka Gadrani due to injuries. Olimpija must do without Pedro Lucas Schweizer and Marko Ristić (both recovering from serious knee injuries) and the suspended Talisson Charles.
Head-to-Head Both teams have not yet met in an official competition. The first leg ended 1-1, with goals from Satpaev for Kairat and Pinto for Olimpija.
Match Prediction Kairat's home strength, combined with Olimpija's rather weak away form, points to a narrow home win or at least a close match. Due to the defensive stability of both teams and the low scoring rate in previous encounters, probably no more than two goals will be scored within 90 minutes. The bet "Under 2.5 goals" with odds of 1.65 therefore appears highly recommendable.
My tip: Under 2.5 goals (1.65)
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Lincoln Gibraltar - Vikingur G
When: 17:30 Where: UEFA Champions League Qualifying Round 1
Lincoln Gibraltar Juanjo Bezares' team has maintained its strong form after a two-month break: seven titles in a row, eight matches leading at halftime, and recently nine home wins in ten games. Particularly notable is midfielder Bernardo Lopez, who scored a brace in the first leg and controls the tempo of the game. New signing Christian Ruthens strengthens the defense and left a positive impression in his debut. There are no injuries, and the proven lineup is expected to be retained.
Vikingur G Johann Petur Poulsen's squad enters the match with concerns: two consecutive defeats, including a home loss, as well as the suspension of Olaf Bardarson reduce options in central midfield. The main hope lies with top scorer Poul Kallsberg, who must find ways through the opponent's strong defense. Away, Vikingur is more stable with five wins in seven games and four clean sheets, but the defensive setup and the pressure from the home side make a comeback difficult.
Injuries Both teams are heading into the second leg almost without absences. Lincoln has the entire squad available, including new players. For Vikingur, only Bardarson is missing due to a red card, not due to injury.
Head-to-Head The teams have only met once before in this qualifying round, in which Lincoln won 3-2 away. All five goals were scored before halftime, highlighting Gibraltar's strong start.
Match Prediction Considering current form, home strength, and the cohesive squad, Lincoln is favored. Vikingur will likely rely on quick counterattacks and defensive stability, but chances to turn the result around are limited. Due to the defensive play of both teams and the current scoreline, a game with fewer than 3.5 goals is most likely.
My Tip: Under 3.5 goals (1.43)
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Milsami Orhei - KuPS
When: 19:00 Where: UEFA Champions League, 1st Qualifying Round, Second Leg
Milsami Orhei The team from Orhei started their new European journey with a defeat in Finland (0-1) and also showed some instability in the home league match against Sheriff Tiraspol (1-2). So far this season, they have recorded one win and one loss at home, which does not boost confidence. The biggest offensive threat comes from Kabamba Kalabatama, who is expected to generate constant pressure. The central defense with Danny Lupano and Vasile Jardan remains stable, while Christopher Nwaeze will play a somewhat more offensive role again. However, it remains to be seen whether Milsami can show a stronger offensive performance without taking too many risks defensively.
KuPS The Finnish team is in good form and has not lost any of their last five games. KuPS securely holds second place in the Finnish league table and already showed solid organization in the first match of the round. The team is especially strong away from home: in the last six away games, there has been only one defeat. The starting lineup is expected to remain unchanged. Agon Sadiku once again leads the attack, supported by Joslin Luye-Lutumba on the wing, who has already been successfully deployed.
Injuries Both teams will be without injury concerns and can therefore rely on their usual players and formations.
Head-to-Head The teams have met three times so far, with the Finnish club usually having the upper hand. The last encounter in Moldova ended with a clear 4-1 victory for KuPS. The most recent home game for KuPS was also won 1-0, giving the team confidence for this second leg.
Match Prediction Although Milsami has home advantage and can count on fan support, it will be difficult for them to keep up with KuPS's playing rhythm. The Finnish team shows a high level of competitive maturity, a balanced squad, and the ability to control the game. Milsami will most likely score at least one goal, but KuPS is expected to secure the better result or at least advance with a draw.
My Tip: Double Chance KuPS (1.30)
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Hamrun Spartans - Žalgiris
When: 19:00 Where: UEFA Champions League 1st Qualifying Round
Hamrun Spartans Hamrun Spartans, coached by Giacomo Modica, come into the match after two consecutive losses, which is unusual for them as they had previously been very consistent. Their defense has been stable: in the last eleven games, they conceded more than one goal only twice. However, their offense has been less convincing, with only two goals in the last four matches. At home, the Spartans always play organized, but to qualify they need not only a victory but also a strong offensive performance.
Žalgiris The Lithuanian club Žalgiris is in good form with three consecutive wins and only one point dropped in the last eight games. Their defense is solid, having kept clean sheets in the last two matches, and opponents have rarely scored more than once. As an away team, they display good control and dangerous counterattacks, making them a difficult opponent.
Injuries Hamrun Spartans have no serious absences; the coach can rely on the main squad. Žalgiris will be without Petar Bosančić, who is recovering from an ACL injury, and Nikola Petković due to foot problems.
Head-to-head The only official meeting took place on July 9, 2025, ending 2-0 in favor of Žalgiris. The Lithuanians dominated especially in the second half and allowed Hamrun hardly any dangerous opportunities.
Match Prediction Both teams rely on a solid defense and cautious offense. Hamrun will have to play offensively, while Žalgiris will likely try to defend their lead. Since similar encounters have usually seen fewer than 2.5 goals, a rather low-scoring game is expected. Due to Hamrun’s need to secure at least a point and their home strength, backing the double chance on Hamrun Spartans is recommended.
My tip: Double Chance Hamrun Spartans (1.35)
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Rigas FS - FCI Levadia
When: 19:00 Where: UEFA Champions League, 1st Qualifying Round, Second Leg
Rigas FS The Latvian club Rigas FS is in excellent form with five consecutive wins in the league and a convincing performance in the first match against FCI Levadia. With an average goal output of 2.8 goals per game and a solid defense allowing only 0.8 goals conceded, the team shows a balanced style of play. Key players are striker Darko Lemadžić with 16 season goals and midfielder Janis Ikaunieks with 7 goals and 6 assists. At home, Rigas FS is strong and has secured 12 wins in their last 16 European competition matches.
FCI Levadia The Estonian league leader FCI Levadia appears somewhat weaker according to current statistics: after three league wins, they suffered a defeat against Rigas FS, followed by two more losses. The attack relies heavily on Ernest Agyeri (7 goals, 7 assists) and Bubakar Tambedou (5 goals), who however showed no impact in the first match. Away in European competition, Levadia has major difficulties and has remained winless in 10 games, including 7 defeats.
Injuries Rigas FS will miss striker Mor Talla (6 season goals) due to injury. FCI Levadia must also continue without central midfielder Enok Oteo (4 goals, 3 assists), which affects their game control.
Head-to-Head Other than the recent first match which Rigas FS won 1-0, the teams have not faced each other in any other competition so far.
Match Prediction Rigas FS enters this second leg as clear favorites and, thanks to home advantage, strong offense and stable defense, have the best chances to progress. FCI Levadia will find it difficult to turn the game around, especially given their away weaknesses and missing key players. The game is expected to be highly intense but will likely feature a modest number of goals. A clear home win by at least two goals difference, without conceding, is anticipated.
My Tip: Win Rigas FS (1.48)
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Shkendija - New Saints
When: 20:00 Where: UEFA Champions League Qualifying Round 1
Shkendija The team from Tetovo returns to the European stage after a successful season as Macedonian champions 2023/24. Under the leadership of Jeton Beqiri, Shkendija presents itself as a strong home side. Striker Fiton Ademi continues to have the trust in attack, and the experienced captain Besart Ibraimi, with 29 European cup goals, could also be deployed during the game. The defense is stabilized by Ronaldo Webster and Klisman Keik, and goalkeeper Babukar Gaye showed strong saves in the first leg.
New Saints The Welsh champions New Saints come with the experience of a domestic double and treble, but face injury problems. The loss of Leo Smith due to a knee injury reduces offensive options, while midfielder Rory Holden is expected to be fit to play. The greatest attacking threat is Ben Wilson, former Northern Ireland youth international striker, who scored 17 goals last season in the Scottish Championship.
Injuries New Saints will miss Leo Smith due to a knee injury. Rory Holden is likely fit to play despite a collision in the last match. Shkendija has no personnel losses and can field a full-strength team.
Head-to-Head The first leg ended goalless. In 2017, Shkendija prevailed over New Saints with an aggregate score of 5:4. In 2023, Shkendija was eliminated by another Welsh club, Haverfordwest County, after a penalty shootout. History shows that encounters at the European level are often unpredictable, especially in the early rounds.
Prediction for the match A close battle and controlled midfield play are to be expected. Defensive strength and home advantage slightly favor Shkendija. The individual class of the hosts could ultimately make the difference. Therefore, a narrow victory for the Macedonian team is expected, which is also reflected in the aggregate score. The recommended bet is a win for Shkendija at odds of 1.70.
My tip: Win Shkendija (1.70)
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Buducnost - FK Noa
When: 21:00 Where: UEFA Champions League Qualifying Round 1
Buducnost Buducnost, Montenegro's champion with 84 points from 35 matches, shows a mixed preparation after the national season. In the last five games, only one win was achieved; however, the team is more stable on home ground: Nine of the last ten home games were unbeaten. The home base could play an important role in the second leg, especially if Buducnost plays more offensively than in the first leg.
FK Noa FK Noa from Armenia impressed in the 2024/25 season with both championship and cup victory. The team won five of the last eight games but struggles away with four consecutive matches without a win. In the first leg, Moroccan Imran Ulad Omar scored a decisive goal that secured the lead before the return match. Coach Sandro Perkovic follows an organized tactic with quick transitions.
Injuries Buducnost's defender Ilja Serikov is doubtful, having been injured in the first leg; his replacement is likely Damjan Dakic. FK Noa has no injured players and will probably play with the same lineup as in the first leg, guaranteeing a stable defense.
Head-to-Head The only official meeting so far ended with a 1-0 victory for FK Noa thanks to a goal in the second half by Imran Ulad Omar. This narrow result gives Noa a slight advantage ahead of the second leg.
Match Prediction Despite away weaknesses, FK Noa holds the advantage due to the first leg win and a well-organized team structure. Buducnost will play more offensively at home, which may open up spaces for fast counterattacks. An open game with chances on both sides is likely, so it can be assumed that both teams will score. Midfield control will be crucial, where FK Noa's more agile midfielders could make the difference.
My Tip: Both teams to score: Yes (1.70)
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Breiðablik - Egnatia
When: 21:00 Where: UEFA Champions League Qualification 1st Round
Breiðablik The Icelandic team faces the challenge of overcoming a deficit from the first leg. Their offensive potential, however, is promising: in the current season they have scored 31 goals in 13 home games and show a particularly high scoring threat at home. Players like Tobias Thomsen and Viktor Einarsson are capable of creating decisive chances and scoring goals.
Egnatia The Albanian champions have developed significantly in recent years and have recently won two national titles in a row. The team appears well balanced and is in excellent form, especially away, where they won their last three games with an aggregate score of 7-0. Illdi Gruda, scorer in the first match, could start again and is an important factor for the guests' success.
Injuries Breiðablik is expected to be able to field a full-strength squad, while Egnatia must do without Regi Lushkja, who was suspended in the first leg. In addition, Edison Ndreka is missing due to injury. Poci Anio is planned as a replacement, and Gruda could strengthen the offense.
Head-to-head encounters The only official meeting between the teams took place one week ago and ended with a 1-0 victory for Egnatia. As this is the first encounter in European competitions, the match remains unpredictable and exciting.
Match prediction Breiðablik will play offensively from the start and try to make up the deficit. However, Egnatia has a stable defense and is known for dangerous counterattacks. Due to the pressure from the home team and the defensive stability of the guests, a close game with few goals is expected. Breiðablik has good chances to win the game and thus advance to the next round.
My tip: Breiðablik win (1.70)
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Malmö FF - Iberia 1999
When: 19:00
Where: UEFA Champions League Qualification 1st Round
Malmö FF
Malmö FF enters the second leg at Eleda Stadium in strong form. In the last five games, Henrik Rydström's team has not lost once, winning three and drawing twice. Malmö scored 10 goals and conceded only 3. The offense with Daniel Gudjónsen and Oliver Berg is productive, while in midfield Otto Rosengren and Lasse Berg Jörnsen provide stability. The defense featuring Pontus Jansson and Colin Rössler is solid, and goalkeeper Melker Ellborg will replace the injured Johan Dahlin. On home turf, Malmö has recently secured two successful wins.
Iberia 1999
The Georgian team Iberia 1999 is currently struggling with poor form, having lost their last three matches with a total score of 2:7. Nevertheless, the team leads the domestic league at the top of the table with 44 points. Their defense is very strong with only 10 goals conceded. The biggest offensive threat comes from Irakli Sikharulidze, supported by wingers Gizo Mamageishvili and Iuri Tabatadze. In midfield, Armel Junior Zohouri, Bakar Kardava and Doraso Moreno Klass operate, while the defense is formed by Iva Gelashvili and Georgi Djerenaia. Iberia shows a good away record in the domestic championship with nine games unbeaten, but in their last two European away matches they remained unsuccessful.
Injuries
The host is missing goalkeeper Johan Dahlin, his replacement will be Melker Ellborg. Otherwise, all key players are available. There are no known injuries at Iberia 1999.
Head-to-head matches
The first and so far only encounter took place on July 8, where Malmö secured a 3:1 victory. Malmö led by three goals for a long time before Iberia slightly corrected the result shortly before the end.
Match forecast
Malmö FF travels to the second leg with a comfortable 3:1 lead and also the tactical advantage. The home team can control the tempo and benefits from quality in attack and defense. Iberia 1999 will have to risk everything offensively, which opens up spaces for Malmö. Therefore, another scoring success and a clear win for the Swedes are expected, who should win by at least two goals difference.