Maccabi Tel Aviv vs CSKA Sofia prediction: teams form analysis, possible lineups on August 6, 2026
In the Europa League qualification semi-final on August 6, 2026, the first leg between Maccabi Tel Aviv and CSKA Sofia will take place. The nominal hosts will try to secure a victory.
Maccabi Tel Aviv vs CSKA Sofia: Team News and Expert Analysis
The Tel Aviv club were champions in 2024 and 2025, but then dropped to third place. However, they managed to win both the national cup and the Super Cup, defeating Hapoel Be'er Sheva—the best team in the national championship—in both finals. The Sofia side finished only fourth in their league, but, like their current opponents, lifted the cup. This season, they started with a goalless draw against neighboring Slavia, followed by wins over Botev (3-2) and Dunav (2-1).
In the Europa League, the Israelis resolved the tie in the very first away match against Sheriff, thrashing them 5-0. They also won the nominal home leg, but only thanks to a single own goal by Kone in the 29th minute.
The Bulgarians have already passed through two rounds. It was only easy against Derry City: 3-2 at home, 2-1 in Northern Ireland. Both games against Qarabag ended goalless, but they defeated the Azerbaijan side on penalties.
Previous matches: Maccabi Tel Aviv vs CSKA Sofia
This will be the very first head-to-head encounter.
The formal hosts are considered stronger. We expect their victory (odds – 2.0).
Maccabi Tel Aviv vs CSKA Sofia: Key Statistics and Trends
- Maccabi Tel Aviv won all three opening matches of the season
- The team scored an average of 2.12 goals and conceded only 1.23
- CSKA Sofia ended three of their last five matches in a draw
- The club scored an average of 1.31 goals and conceded only 0.83
Maccabi Tel Aviv vs CSKA Sofia: Possible Starting Lineups
Maccabi Tel Aviv play in a 1-4-3-3 formation (probable lineup): Melika - Revivo, Shlomo, Mohamed Ali Kamara, Ben Harush - Yehezkel, Shahar, Sissoko - Varela, Peretz, Abu-Farhi
CSKA Sofia play in a 1-4-1-4-1 formation (probable lineup): Lapoukhov - Martino, Rodrigues, Ivanov, Pastor - Gbamin - Sensi, Pittas, Bruno Jordao, Ebong - Godoy
Follow the Europa League qualification standings and keep track of your team’s form before placing your next bet.
