UEFA Champions League 2025 – Second Qualifying Round | Whose Side Are You On?

The UEFA Champions League 2025 arrived two weeks ago, and we’re seeing teams furiously clashing. What’s new and unchanged in the 2025 Champions League will further intrigue you in the game. Fans have much on their watchlist to comprehend as the Europa League takes place simultaneously. Check out our UEFA Europa League fixtures. Without doubt, we are assured to witness complete entertainment, rivalries, and dramatic showdowns. Moreover, we already had the results for the first qualifying round. Several teams advanced, while the losers dropped to the Conference League. Additionally, teams with a strong domestic reputation compete in the Champions League qualifying round 2. Therefore, these fixtures arrange cross-club rivals that bring top-tier drama and rivalry. So, stay connected with us to get up-to-date news and updates about the UEFA Champions League.

Champions League Qualifying Round 1 – Recap

The first qualifying round of the Champions League eliminated several teams and placed them in the Conference League. Teams like Lincoln Red Imps, Crvena Zvezda, Hamrun, and Dynamo Kyiv had strong momentum. Subsequently, these teams will push harder to get into the league phase. One of the key highlights was the dramatic penalty shootout. The Žalgiris and Hamrun Spartans clashes were tied in the second leg, leading to a suspenseful penalty round. Hamrun advanced to the second qualifying round by scoring the heroic penalty. In the first qualifying round, teams like Malmö, Zrinjski Mostar, and Breiðablik substantially impacted the aggregate scores. Especially, Mlamo FF, Mostar, and RFS have won in both matches, entering the second qualifying round with swag. Out of 28 teams, the qualified 14 teams enter the second qualifying stage, clashing with the seeded 16 teams. Access our elite sports predictions and trending news from Bettingpremier.

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What is Ahead of the Second Qualifying Stage

The teams that have qualified in the first qualifying stage went for the second stage matching with seeded teams. At the end of the second qualifying stage, we will be having the only 14 teams qualifying for the next phase. Consequently, the upcoming qualifying round 2 will push the teams to test their patience and limits. Hence, fans can expect pure thrill and unexpected deliveries. Keep up with Bettingpremier to get out sensational football news and stay ahead of the curve.

Champions League Second Qualifying Round – Predictions

KuPS vs Kairat

KuPS and Kairat will compete in a full-fledged Champions League match on 22 July 2025. The match will take place at the Kuopio Football Stadium at 11:00 a.m. ET.

Prediction

KuPS is a strong team that is ranked higher in its domestic league. Its players average 1.88 points per game. In factors like xG, possession, goals conceded, and goals scored, they are decent enough to compete with tier-1 European clubs.

But Kairat easily has the upper hand in every deciding factor. They competed against 16 teams and had a record of 11 wins, three draws, and two losses. Kairat secured 2^nd position in their domestic league. To conclude, we can surely expect Kairat to seize the win.

Noah vs Ferencváros

The Armenian football club Noah faces Ferencváros in the Champions League’s first leg of the second qualifying round. Catch their dramatic showdown on 22 July 2025 at Kotaik Stadium at 12:30 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Noah FC recently won the Armenian Premier League title in 2025. Their Current form suggests their endurance and attacking flair. They have won most of their recent matches and are consistent in defense and offense.

On the other hand, Ferencváros’ stats are equally impressive and solid as Noah FC’s. Ferencváros has been consistent in dominating the domestic league. Even though this match is scheduled at home for Noah, Ferencváros’ dominant form favors them to win.

Lincoln Red Imps vs Crvena Zvezda

The Lincoln Red Imps vs. Crvena Zvezda Champions League match will occur on 22 July 2025. It is expected to take place at Europa Sports Complex at 12:00 p.m. ET.

Prediction

The current statistics of both teams draw a huge margin between their capabilities. The Red Imps are having a winning streak at their home. The Red Imps average more goals per match than Zvezda.

However, this is the first time they meet and Crvena Zvezda have a strong experience in European leagues. Therefore, in the upcoming Champions League clash against Lincoln Red Imps, Crvena Zvezda is more favored to win.

Copenhagen vs Drita

The Danish FC Copenhagen seeks for an intense second qualifying round clash against Drita. Get ready to witness this game on 22 July 2025 at Pristina City Stadium exactly at 01:00 p.m. ET.

Prediction

In the previous five matches, Copenhagen had delivered an outstanding performance in their domestic league. They dominate possession and dictate the tempo throughout. They also did frequent hits and hits on targets most of the time.

Drita suffers with inconsistency and relies solely on luck rather than precision. Their average score per game stays below 2 for the past five games. They often focus too much on either defense or offense. Their imbalance will become vulnerable to Copenhagen’s balanced team causing Copenhagen to win.

Viktoria Plzeň vs Servette

Brace yourselves to see the goals and assists in the captivating match between Viktoria Plzeň and Servette. Watch the game on 22 July 2025 at 01:00 p.m. ET occurring at Doosan Arena.

Prediction

Viktoria Plzeň leads the Czech domestic league with the first position. Their scoring average surpasses that of their peers. But they take a backseat in discipline, often receiving yellow cards and red cards. Despite a lack of coordination in discipline, their overall offensive strength compensates for the drawbacks.

Conversely, Servette struggled in the end of the 2024-25 season. They performance were poor in the away matches. In the last season, Servette was prone to lose in away matches. Viktoria Plzeň is set to outlast Servette in this UEFA Champions League clash.

RFS vs Malmö

Football fans, set your eye for the upcoming Champions League battle between RFS and Malmö. The match is at Lnk Sporta Parks beginning at 01:00 p.m. ET on 22 July 2025.

Prediction

Malmö has its primal form with undefeated winning streak in the recent matchups. Additionally, in a previous friendly match, Malmö crushed RFS, gaining a psychological edge over RFS. In terms of attacking prowess, they have their league’s best offense.

RFS, while in strong form domestically, may struggle against Malmö’s seasoned players and strategies. Malmö has a history of European competitions, enabling them to perform well under pressure. Finally, considering the threats and opportunities suggests Malmö to be the favorite to conquer this UEFA Champions League.

Pafos vs Maccabi Tel-Aviv

Pafos will engage in an exhilarating football clash with M.Tel-Aviv on 22 July 2025. This match will begin at Alphamega Stadium at 01:00 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Pafos is a new team that have just made their debut in 2024-25 UEFA Champions League season. However, this season, they haven’t played any competitive match yet. This might take them some time to adapt into the pace. They are also inexperienced in European Leagues compared with veteran Maccabi.

Maccabi Tel Aviv brings experience from past European campaigns. It gives them the edge in the in handling high pressure situations. They also have several summer trade signings which will increase their squad depth. As a result, Maccabi Tel Aviv has the overall edge to win against Pafos.

Hamrun vs Dynamo Kyiv

Hamrun Spartans take on Dynamo Kyiv in a thrilling UCL tie on 22 July 2025. This match is scheduled to occur at MFA Centenary Stadium at 01:00 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Hamrun Spartans is the rising underdog that cleared its rivalries in the domestic league. Now they are eyeing the Champions League trophy. At this level, Hamrun are still inexperienced with their elite contemporaries. They managed to win in only one of the friendly matches.

Regarding offensive and defensive vulnerabilities, Dynamo Kyiv is more skilled and tactical. Against a new team with no experience, Dynamo already has the advantage of putting pressure on Hamrun early. They are entering this Champions League with a recent title of Ukrainian Premier League. Hence, Dynamo Kyiv will firmly conquer the Spartans.

Shkëndija vs FCSB

FCSB seeks to lock horns with Shkëndija on 22 June 2025 at the Todor Proeski National Arena. Don’t miss the match scheduled to begin at 02:00 p.m. ET.

Prediction

In the first qualifying rounds, FCSB showed great progress and competitiveness. Their squad strength is deep and more balanced with experienced players who will manage high-pressure situations. With a strong attacking flair and a notable ability to score multiple goals, Shkëndija’s defense will be exploited.

This is only the second appearance for Shkëndija in the Champions League since 20219. They have failed to maintain clean sheets indicating lapses in defense. Consequently, the Shkëndija will feel the weight of competing with a disciplined and an experienced team, leading to FCSB’s victory.

Slovan Bratislava vs Zrinjski

Buckle up for the thrilling showdown between Slovan Bratislava and Zrinjski hitting the Tehelné Pole on 22 July 2025. The kick will begin at 02:15 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Zrinjski has few uncertainties concerning around player injuries to the team’s major offensive strength. They have a poor away record in their past matches. Zrinjski’s current form struggles to keep up with Slovan’s speed.

Conversely, Slovan Bratislava has a better-organized line-up than Zrinjski. Moreover, the ball possession, frequent hitting, and tactical assists are the key strengths of Slovan Bratislava. Due to a superior capability, Slovan Bratislava is the predicted winner of this second qualifying round’s leg 1.

Lech Poznań vs Breiðablik

Mark your calendars for 22 July 2025, as Lech Poznań faces Breiðablik at Enea Poznań Stadium in Poland. This 2^nd qualifying round kicks-off at scheduled at 02:30 p.m. ET.

Prediction

The Leach Ponzan recently smashed the Polish Ekstraklasa demonstrates their ability to perform well under pressure. Their squad is relatively more experienced than Breiðablik. Finally, they have the home advantage this time, making their victory more solid.

Breiðablik has historically struggled in European competitions away from home. While they have a decent form in domestic league, they lack Lech’s European experience. Despite a poor start to their domestic season, Lech’s overall squad quality and experience in these situations should give them the edge.

Rijeka vs Ludogorets

HNK Rijeka and Ludogorets meet for UCL qualifiers on 22 July 2025. Catch the event live at Stadion HNK Rijeka in Croatia at 02:45 p.m. ET.

Prediction

Rijeka boasts a solid win in recent matches, losing just once out of nine fixtures. Especially, their average score per game is too high for the qualifying rounds. Rijeka’s home advantage gives them an edge to shine in this UEFA Champions League clash.

Ludogorets on the other hand, has had a rough pre-season, failing to win their four matches leading up to this point. So, their offense against the Rijeka demands peak athleticism and speed. Although they have improved with recent wins, inconsistencies may affect their performance against a competent Rijeka side. In short, Rijeka will take down Ludogorets.

Rangers vs Panathinaikos

Rangers face-off with Panathinaikos at Ibrox Stadium in Glasgow, Scotland, on 22 July 2025. The match is set to begin at 02:45 p.m. ET.; don’t miss the battle to witness.

Prediction

Rangers hold the home advantage and are expected to perform well at Ibrox, having finished strongly last season. They enter the match following a six-game unbeaten streak, although with many draws.

Panathinaikos, in contrast, finished third in their Greece domestic league with inconsistent results. It makies Rangers the favored side for a potential 2-1 home victory.

Brann vs RB Salzburg

SK Brann will face Red Bull Salzburg on 23 July 2025, at Brann Stadion in Bergen, Norway at 01:00 p.m.

Prediction

Salzburg has definitive record of above average ball possession and frequent target hits. The coordination among the players is outstanding and is visible under pressure. Additionally, they also draw experience from FIFA World Cup participations and is exposed to elite level clubs like Real Madrid.

On the flip side, Brann is returning to this level after 17 years and may lack the depth to compete over two legs. Salzburg’s squad depth, coupled with their exposure to top clubs like Real Madrid, provides them with a distinct advantage. Hence, we can surely expect Salzburg to win, taking a lead into the second leg.

Shelbourne vs Qarabag FK

Shelbourne sets off to clash with Qarabag FK at Tolka Park in Dublin, on 23 July 2025. The Champions League match is expected to begin at 02:45 p.m. ET.

Prediction

The Qarabag FK’s squad depth is outstanding, and their European experience is top-tier. Shelbourne has shown good domestic form, including an impressive defensive record and an unbeaten run under their new coach. But Qarabag’s European pedigree should give them the edge in this tie.

The potential for both teams to score adds an interesting element, making the match more uncertain. But Qarabag’s ability to bounce back from recent setbacks makes them the more likely winner.