Ararat-Armenia vs Celje prediction: expert analysis, possible lineups, August 4, 2026
Champions League
In the Champions League qualification semi-final on August 4, 2026, the first match between Ararat-Armenia and Celje will take place. The hosts understand how important it is to achieve success here.
Ararat-Armenia vs Celje: Team News and Expert Analysis
The club from Yerevan was founded only in 2017 but has already become national champion three times. Last season, for instance, they finished four points ahead of the title holder, Noah, and five ahead of the record-holder, Pyunik. The visitors from Celje claimed their first-ever title in 2020, after a century since their foundation. Since then, they've been the best in the country two more times, including last spring. They have only started the new season with draws against Mura and Maribor.
In the Champions League, the Armenians began a month ago. First, they overcame Riga, then dealt with Shamrock Rovers—both times following the same scenario: after a 2-0 home win, they narrowly lost on the road, 2-3 in Latvia and 1-2 in Ireland.
The Slovenians entered the competition in the previous round. It wasn't easy: Egnatia held them to a 3-3 draw at home. Then, in Albania, both teams exchanged goals during regular time and extra time. Only in the penalty shootout did the Albanians falter, losing 1-4.
Previous Matches: Ararat-Armenia vs Celje
The only previous encounter was in the Europa League qualification in COVID-hit 2020. Back then, the Armenians scored the only goal in extra time.
This time, too, home advantage could be crucial. In Yerevan, we expect the hosts not to lose (odds – 1.60).
Ararat-Armenia vs Celje: Key Statistics and Trends
- Ararat-Armenia won their home qualification matches but lost both away games
- The club scored an average of 1.77 goals and conceded almost half as many, 0.92 per match
- Celje has drawn four matches in a row
- The team scored an average of 2.5 goals and conceded 0.94 per match
Ararat-Armenia vs Celje: Probable Starting Lineups
Ararat-Armenia plays in a 1-3-4-3 formation (probable lineup): João Bravim – Malis, Bruno Wilson, Bueno – Grigoryan, Hugo Oliveira, Muradyan, Carlie – Banjaki, Sandro Lima, Serobyan
Celje plays in a 1-4-4-2 formation (probable lineup): Leban – Kutris, Tutushkin, Shirvis, Hrka – Zabukovnik, Papa Daniel, Kvesic – Avdili, Seslar, Kuchis
Place your bets on the upcoming match and follow your team's progress in the Champions League qualification standings
