UEFA Europa League – First Qualifying Round

UEFA’s first qualifying round results are here. We had home matches for a set of teams against their rivals. The upcoming leg 2 of 2 qualifying round will be conducted on July 17, 2025. In leg 1 of 2, the home teams mainly benefited from the home advantage. This time, the tables have turned. The same Europa League matchup is replayed this time with the teams switching home venues. Adding to the excitement, the previous match results and detailed statistics will help us predict the upcoming match. This article will discuss the winning probabilities and predictions for the upcoming Europa League clashes. So, stay connected with us to get exclusive sports predictions and game analysis.

What Can Be Expected?

The upcoming UEFA Europa League promises to be more enthralling and exciting in terms of entertainment and sportsmanship. Fans are in preparation mode to cheer their favorite teams on to the playoffs. One exciting thing is that Europa League gathers all the unrecognized teams from mainstream sports. Consequently, we will see more underdog teams getting a chance to prove their potential. As a result of the Europa League’s first Qualifying Round’s first leg, the second leg provides more drama. Teams with narrow defeats will try to tie the match. Consequently, we can expect moments of tension and suspense. We may also get to see new talents who could be the next sensation in the football world. So, never miss a single update and keep in touch with our Europa League news.

Previous Match Recap

Celje vs Sabah

The previous clash between Celje and Sabah ended with Celje winning by a close margin against Sabah. As soon as the match began, Sabah took the lead in the 18^th minute with their speed and tactical precision. In the 48^th minute of the game, Celje got even with Sabah by a goal assisted by Nikita Iosifov. In the 90+4^th minute, Darko Hrka of Celje delivered a precise header, earning them a victory. The match was unpredictable as both teams continued with equal scores until the 90^th minute.

Ilves vs Shakhtar Donetsk

In the first leg of the UEFA Europa League qualifying round on July 10, 2025, Donetsk defeated Ilves Tampere 6-0. Alisson Santana found the net twice, once in each half. Key players like Kauã Elias, Kevin, Pedrinho, and Newerton scored numerous goals that dictated the match. Shakhtar’s dominant performance created a decisive win for their team and set a strong tone for upcoming matches.

AEK Larnaca vs Partizan

AEK Larnaca edged past Serbian heavyweights Partizan with a close win. It displayed Larnaca’s disciplined build-up play and patience at home. Both teams created chances to take over the match in the first half. But in the 67th minute, E.Cabrera provided a breakthrough with his goal. After that, Larnaca absorbed the pressure with its tactical defense and ensured the lead remained intact.

advertisement

Sheriff vs Prishtina

Sheriff produced four continuous goals with their intimidating ball possession and dominance. They forced errors on Prishtina and deliberately capitalized on the lapses. Each attacking move initiated by the Sheriff showed sharp passing and calculated defense. By halftime, Sheriff had already taken the lead against Prishtina, and they continued to threaten after the break. This convincing victory of the Sheriff earned them the lead in the qualifying rounds.

Paks vs CFR Cluj

Neither Paks nor CFR Cluj could find a breakthrough in a tense and tactical battle in Hungary. Both teams finished Europa League leg one in a goalless draw. Occasionally, both sides generated several promising opportunities from wide positions. But goalkeepers were equal to the task. Defenses stayed compact and frustrated attackers for long stretches. The result leaves everything open, with both teams aiming for a more expansive approach and a crucial breakthrough.

Levski Sofia vs Hapoel Be’er Sheva

Levski Sofia and Hapoel Be’er Sheva prioritized defense over attacking play. Leg one in Bulgaria ended in a scoreless draw, as both teams prioritized defensive solidity. Neither of the sides found the attacking flair needed to seize control. Midfield battles and a lack of clear chances took up most of the 90 minutes. None of them received a red or a yellow card. It perfectly balanced the tie and set up a tense and dramatic expectation for the second leg.

Spartak Trnava vs Häcken

Using effective build-up plays and disciplined defense, BK Häcken won in an away match against Spartak Trnava. The Swedish club stormed with early aggression before producing crucial goals. Eventually, Häcken scored a single goal that held the team’s standing above. Spartak Trnava pushed forward late, but Häcken stood strong under pressure. The single-goal advantage gives Häcken confidence and puts Spartak under pressure ahead of the decisive second leg.

Legia Warszawa vs FC Aktobe

Legia Warszawa cruised past FC Aktobe at home with sharp transitions and solid defense. The opening went tightly contested for both teams. Surprisingly, just before halftime, Legia took the lead by capitalizing on Aktobe’s defensive lapse. Both teams had stretches of control, but Legia’s midfield effectively disrupted attacks. But Legia’s effective midfield and progression tactics disrupted Aktobe’s rhythm. Follow Bettingpremier for exciting football commentaries and sports analysis.

Future Europa League Qualifying Round – Leg 2 Matches

FC Aktobe vs Legia Warszawa

Legia Warszawa enters the second match with FC Aktobe on July 17, 2025. This Europa League qualifying round begins at 12:00 p.m. EST at Pavlodar Central Stadium.

Predictions

Legia enters the second leg with a single-goal lead. They executed excellent progressions and assists at home. The second leg now shifts to Kazakhstan for the next showdown. Aktobe must take more risks at home. Early pressure may create chances for them. Aktobe may try to implement early pressure to defend their structure. At home, the Kazakhs will perform well under pressure. But Legia will still take control of the tempo. Rather than the first approach, counterattacks might be good opportunities for Kazakh to score. Akobe needs a single goal to level the tie; however, the outcome of leg two will decide the rest. We can expect a tight offense on both sides. Ultimately, Legia’s experience will enable them to win this Europa League qualifying leg 2.

Ilves vs Shakhtar Donetsk

The Finnish pride Ilves will face Shakhtar Donetsk in the upcoming UEFA Europa League, which begins on July 17, 2025. The clash will take place at Tammela Stadium, Finland, at 12 p.m. EST.

Predictions

After winning the first leg, Donetsk gained a considerable advantage and confidence. It was a home win for Donetsk, so they will try to pressure Ilves early in the match. Ilves scored continuously in the field with their excellent offense and assists. They maintain consistency in scoring and are good at defense, too. Ilves might push forward but risk conceding again. Donetsk’s attackers are sharp in the offense and consistently seek opportunities to grab the ball. They possess an excellent strategy in turning defense into progression. Long balls may support the Ilves, but scoring above four is impractical for their current condition. Donetsk will easily dominate Ilves in the upcoming Europa League match.

BK Häcken vs Spartak Trnava

Sweden’s BK Häcken is set to clash with Spartak Trnava in the Europa League contest. The game will begin at Bravida Arena on July 17, 2025, at 01:00 p.m. EST.

Predictions

BK Häcken boasts a previous victory against Spartak Trnava. Spartak’s recent form shows inconsistency compared to Häcken’s run. Häcken shows more stability with recent draws and a recent win. In the head-to-head match history, we can see Häcken ‘s heightened performance. The fact that Häcken ‘s next match is scheduled at home gives them an additional edge. They won away with strong counters and defense. Now, they will look to control play early. Spartak Trnava must score at least once to stay in the race. But Häcken will try to exploit that space. Early pressure from Häcken could break Trnava’s structure, and they may struggle with pace from Häcken’s wingers. Häcken is predicted to win in the Europa League’s leg 2 of the first qualifying round.

CFR Cluj vs Paks

CFR Cluj and Paks will face off again on July 17, 2025. This Europa League fixture will be held at the Stadionul Dr. Constantin Rădulescu at 1:30 p.m. EST.

Predictions

CFR Cluj is strongly favored to win in this upcoming match, given their superior experience in European leagues. Comparing their team statistics shows that Paks struggles to make frequent contacts and sustain possession. Cluj has more shots, and they have once made it on target. CFR Cluj has relatively higher ball possession, passes, and pass accuracy. But in terms of discipline, Cluj takes a backseat. They are more prone to fouls than the Paks. But the Paks have received a yellow card, which can be compensated for. Offense is solid for Cluj, but they need to refine their discipline. The offensive capabilities could easily dominate the Paks in this second matchup.

Prishtina vs Sheriff

On July 17, 2025, Prishtina will face Sheriff in a fierce UEFA Europa League matchup at 2:00 p.m. EST. The match will take place at Pristina City Stadium.

Predictions

Prishtina suffered a heavy 4-0 away defeat to Sheriff in their last match. The game was an absolute disaster for Prishtina, as Sheriff dominated the entire 90 minutes. But in leg 2 of the qualifying round, the teams will play at Prishtina’s home stadium. It adds an advantage to the team’s psychological strength as it appears less vulnerable. Prishtina will press for more scores, and Sheriff will try dismantling their overall defense. The Prishtina team must tie the series by securing a victory in this upcoming match. However, the Sheriff’s superior defense and offensive flair will likely win the game.

Sabah vs Celje

In the Europa League’s first qualifying round, Sabah will face Celje at Z’dežele Stadium on July 17, 2025. The match begins at 02:00 a.m. EST.

Predictions

Sabah returns to the pitch aiming to avenge their 3-2 home defeat to Celje. They dominated early in a first leg full of twists and surprises. However, Sabah’s defensive lapses allowed Celje to score persistently. Celje’s local support should motivate them at home and create more chances. Additionally, Celje gained more momentum and confidence after their comeback in the second half of the previous match. If Sabah gets vulnerable while trying to chase a tie, Celje’s counterattacking capability will strike them in their lapses. We can expect the game to be intense in the initial stages as both teams will try to dominate relentlessly. Celje’s discipline, quality in transition, and aggregate lead make them slight favourites to secure progression.

Hapoel Be’er Sheva vs Levski Sofia

After the first match ended in a draw, Be’er Sheva and Levski Sofia will play again on July 17, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. EST. The Europa League game occurs at Városi Stadion.

Predictions

The first leg of first qualifying round ended in a draw, as neither team scored. The game went dry for most of the time. Be’er Sheva received a red card and three yellow cards. Whereas Levski Sofia received only two yellow and a red card. They also changed substitutes five times, indicating their weaker offensive strength. Considering the opportunities and threats for both teams, we can expect Sheva to perform more aggressively with superior ball possession. Yet, the defensive side of the team needs more attention. Levski Sofia will try to restrict the scores for Sheva, but Sofia’s above-average speed and precision will overtake Be’er Sheva.

Partizan vs AEK Larnaca

Partizan and AEK Larnaca will play in the upcoming UEFA Europa League Qualifier stage on July 17, 2025. This time, the match will occur at Partizan Stadium, in Serbia, at 03:00 p.m. EST.

Predictions

Partizan returns home trailing by one goal. Their strong fan support will create a loud and tense atmosphere. AEK played smart in the first leg and defended well. But at home matches, Partizan often attacks well from the start. Quick passes and wing crosses can open gaps, which could make AEK struggle. Nonetheless, AEK remains dangerous on the counter. Their compact shape blocks space in front and defends against any progression from the opponents. Set pieces could be key in tight moments. If Partizan scores before halftime, the match may go to extra time. Otherwise, AEK holds the edge to win as they lead on aggregate scores.