KuPS vs Universitatea Craiova prediction: teams form analysis, possible lineups on August 6, 2026
Europa League
In the 1/2 finals of the Europa League qualifiers on August 6, 2026, KuPS and Universitatea Craiova will play their first match. Both teams are aiming for a strong start in this tournament.
KuPS vs Universitatea Craiova: Team News and Expert Analysis
The club from Kuopio reclaimed the top spot in the Veikkausliiga back in 2024 and managed to retain their lead the following season. However, they risk losing it now, although they are still ahead of Inter Turku for the time being. The team from Craiova managed to win their first championship title in three and a half decades. They also added the Cup and Super Cup, beating their "namesakes" from Cluj in all finals. Recently, however, they have suffered a domestic loss, although they thrashed Petrolul-52 4-0 in their last league match.
Both teams were eliminated from the Champions League. For the Finns, it was after they passed Vardar, securing a 2-0 win in North Macedonia and then a 2-3 loss at home in extra time. But against Sabah, they lost both legs without scoring, 0-1 and 0-2.
The Romanians comfortably defeated ML Vitebsk twice—4-1 away and 1-0 at home. But then came a defeat to Levski. After a 0-1 away loss, they tried to make up for it at home but, despite conceding twice first, managed to salvage a draw.
Previous Matches: KuPS vs Universitatea Craiova
This will be the first meeting between the clubs.
The visitors will certainly try to fight for a positive result. The "both teams to score" option is worth considering (odds – 1.74).
KuPS vs Universitatea Craiova: Key Statistics and Trends
- KuPS have lost three consecutive matches in European competitions
- On average, KuPS score 1.83 goals and concede 0.89 goals per match
- 61% of KuPS matches end with both teams scoring, and the average total goals per match is 2.72
- Universitatea Craiova have lost two of their last four matches
- The club scores an average of 1.63 goals per match while conceding almost half as much—0.83
- 43% of Universitatea Craiova matches end with both teams scoring, and their average total goals per match is 2.45
KuPS vs Universitatea Craiova: Possible Starting Lineups
KuPS play in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (possible lineup): Kreidl – Antwi, Magassa, Adams, Puukko – Toure, Gask – Arma, Pennanen, Jurju – Moreno
Universitatea Craiova play in a 1-3-4-3 formation (possible lineup): Popescu – Stevanovic, Screciu, Rus – Bancu, Cicâldău, Mekvabishvili, Mora – Bayaram, Nsimba, Matei
Follow the Europa League qualification standings and check your team's form before placing a bet on the next match.
