Tip: Qarabag to win
Qarabag already confirmed their dominance in the first leg with a convincing 3-0 away win at Shelbourne. The Azerbaijani side has European experience, a deep squad and quality in attack. Even if they rotate some players, the home advantage and the motivation to comfortably seal the tie should be enough for another victory. Shelbourne are struggling with injuries and lack the experience for this level of European competition.
Tip: Malmo to win
Malmo thrashed RFS 4-1 in the first leg and will be eager to follow up with another win at home. The Swedish champions have a powerful offense and excellent home form. RFS have a poor record against stronger teams and are further weakened by the injury to key player Karashima. Given Malmo’s attacking power and home advantage, they are expected to dominate once again.
Tip: draw
FCSB will have the home crowd on their side, but the team is struggling for form and is under pressure after losing the first leg 0-1. Shkendija delivered a solid and disciplined performance, successfully neutralizing the Romanian side’s attack. Even though FCSB had more possession and chances, their recent form is inconsistent. Shkendija are on a six-match unbeaten streak and should be able to earn a draw in a tight match.
Tip: Ludogorets to win
After a goalless draw in the first leg, Ludogorets now hold the home advantage, where they are usually dominant. The Bulgarian champions have a well-balanced and experienced team, while Rijeka barely created any threat in the first match. Ludogorets also have greater squad depth and confidence in their game, which should be decisive in such a tight tie.
Tip: Ferencvaros to win
Ferencvaros showed great character in the first leg, coming from behind to win 2-1 despite going down to 10 men. The Hungarian champions are strong at home and are on a good run under manager Robbie Keane. Noah struggle away from home in European competition and will face a motivated and dangerous home side. If Ferencvaros stay disciplined, they should win again.
Tip: draw
The first leg ended 1-1, and another balanced encounter is expected in the second match. Both teams have quality going forward, but neither has a clear edge. The match will be played at a neutral venue, which removes the home-field advantage. Given the even strength of both sides, extra time or penalties could be needed to decide the winner.
Tip: Rangers to win
Rangers comfortably won the first leg 2-0 and looked far better organized and more dangerous. The Scottish side are in good form and remain unbeaten under new manager Russell Martin. Panathinaikos will try to fight back at home, but they will be missing key players such as Bakasetas and suspended Vagiannidis. Rangers have enough quality to manage the tie and even secure another win.
Tip: Breidablik to win
Lech Poznan won the first leg by a massive 7-1 margin and are expected to rest key players in the return leg. Breidablik will be motivated to restore some pride and deliver a respectable home performance. With Poznan likely to take it easier and rotate, the Icelandic side have a chance to surprise. They’ll be playing with full effort and nothing to lose.
Tip: Salzburg to win
Salzburg turned a 0-1 deficit into a 4-1 win in the first leg, showing their class in the second half. The Austrian side have a deep squad, strong form and home advantage. Even with some squad rotation, Salzburg remain firm favourites. Brann are dealing with injuries and have struggled away in European competitions. Salzburg are fully focused on returning to the Champions League group stage and should win again.
Tip: Viktoria Plzen to win
Plzen lost the first leg 0-1 but dominated in shots and xG, and with a sharper attacking display, they could easily overturn the deficit. The Czech side have experience in European competitions and should improve their finishing. Servette are solid at home but may struggle to contain a more focused Plzen side. If the Czech team maintains its performance level, they have a real chance to win and progress.