Tip: FC Midtjylland to win
Midtjylland have greater European experience and a deeper squad than Fredrikstad, who reached this stage thanks to winning the domestic cup but have been inconsistent in the league. The Danish side boast quality forwards capable of deciding matches even against well-organised defences, and they showed resilience in overcoming Hibernian in the previous round. Fredrikstad may have home advantage and strong support, but recent form has been unstable, and they will face significant pressure from a more physical and technically skilled opponent. Midtjylland’s superior attack and solid defence should be enough to secure victory in the first leg.
Tip: Lincoln Red Imps to win
The Gibraltarian champions may have limited experience in the later stages of European competitions, but they have shown attacking strength in previous rounds, especially at home. Against Armenian side FC Noah, they will rely on striker Tjay de Barr and an experienced back line led by Christian Rutjens. Noah began their domestic league campaign with a 4-0 win, but their away form is inconsistent, and defensive errors could be costly. If Lincoln maintain compact defence and build on their recent scoring form, they have a good chance of taking a lead into the second leg.
Tip: double chance Legia or draw
AEK Larnaca thrive on strong home performances, but Legia are unbeaten in a long run and bring experience from last season’s Europa Conference League quarter-finals. The Polish side have progressed past Aktobe and Baník Ostrava, showing they can handle close ties. AEK are missing several attacking options, which could limit their productivity. Legia’s compact defence and quick transitions may be the key to a positive result. The double chance on the visitors or a draw covers the likelihood that the Polish side will take a favourable result back home.
Tip: Braga to win
CFR Cluj have endured a demanding qualifying route and a poor start in their domestic league. Braga, although needing extra time against Levski Sofia, possess a more balanced and technically advanced squad accustomed to European competition. The Portuguese side feature a potent attack led by Ricardo Horta and Fran Navarro, capable of punishing any mistake. Cluj face an injury crisis, with several key players missing, which could be decisive against such a technically gifted opponent. Braga have all the tools to secure an advantage in the first leg.
Tip: double chance Hacken or draw
Hacken come into this match buoyed by their heroic win over Anderlecht, backed by strong home support and an attacking style. The Swedish side have quick wingers and dangerous set pieces that could trouble the Norwegian visitors. Brann, despite winning their last league game 4-1, have conceded in each of their last six matches, exposing defensive vulnerabilities. Hacken will look to capitalise on their home advantage and attacking qualities, while Brann may focus on keeping the tie alive for the second leg. The double chance covers the likely outcome of a close scoreline.
Tip: PAOK to win
PAOK are one of Greece’s traditional powerhouses, and their home ground Toumba Stadium is renowned for its intimidating atmosphere. Wolfsberger are well organised defensively but often struggle to get results away from home in Europe. The Greek side have technical players capable of controlling the game’s tempo and creating chances through sustained pressure. Although this is their first competitive match of the season, the quality of their squad and past European experience give them a strong chance of winning and taking a first-leg advantage.
Tip: double chance Shakhtar or draw
Shakhtar Donetsk travel to Athens in excellent form, boasting a dangerous attack led by Kevin Santos and a solid defensive record. Panathinaikos have long struggled with scoring, managing just one goal in their last five matches. The Ukrainian side combine technical quality with disciplined play, and their quick transitions could trouble the Greek defence. The hosts will likely try to keep the game tight and preserve hope for the return leg, but Shakhtar’s current form and confidence favour them. A double chance on X2 is a logical choice.
Tip: Zrinjski Mostar to win
Zrinjski Mostar have an outstanding home record, with only one competitive defeat since March. Breidablik may be an attacking force in the Icelandic league, but their defence is vulnerable, as shown by heavy losses to Lech Poznań. The hosts have experienced players such as Bilbija, capable of punishing mistakes and making the most of home support. Zrinjski are expected to secure an advantage ahead of the second leg.
Tip: FCSB to win
FCSB are clear favourites thanks to their superior squad quality, experience, and home advantage. Although they dropped out of the Champions League, they should have a clear edge over Kosovo’s Drita in both technical and tactical aspects. The visitors have defensive issues and often drop points away from home. The Romanian side will be eager to repair their reputation and show dominance in front of their fans. If FCSB exploit their attacking weapons from the start, they should take the win.
Tip: double chance Utrecht or draw
Servette are in a slump following their Champions League exit and are missing several key players, including captain Rouiller. Utrecht, in contrast, have made a strong start to the season and boast a solid squad that overcame Tiraspol comfortably. The Dutch side have a quick attacking transition, technically skilled players, and a stable defence. While the hosts will try to break their poor run, Utrecht’s current form and composure suggest they will take at least a draw back home.