Maccabi Tel Aviv vs CSKA Sofia: Match Preview, Predictions and Betting Tips
Published on Tuesday, 04 August 2026 by Steve
Maccabi Tel Aviv vs CSKA Sofia
UEFA Europa League Third Qualifying Round Prediction & Betting Tips
Match Overview
The UEFA Europa League third qualifying round throws up an intriguing cross-border clash as Maccabi Tel Aviv lock horns with Bulgarian giants CSKA Sofia on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at the Batumi Stadium in Georgia. This represents a significant milestone for both clubs as they navigate the challenging qualifying pathway toward the Europa League group stage, with the winner of this two-legged tie advancing to the playoff round and guaranteeing themselves at least a place in the UEFA Conference League group phase. For Maccabi Tel Aviv, this fixture continues their remarkable continental journey that has already seen them dismantle Sheriff Tiraspol 6-0 on aggregate in the previous round, while CSKA Sofia arrive buoyed by their Bulgarian Cup triumph and a hard-fought progression past Derry City and a goalless draw away to Azerbaijani powerhouse Qarabağ in their second qualifying round tie.
Maccabi Tel Aviv enter this contest as the overwhelming favourites, not merely because of their status as one of Israel's most decorated clubs, but due to their scintillating form under new permanent head coach Kenny Miller. The yellow-and-blue have been in sensational attacking mood throughout the early stages of the 2026/27 campaign, having already captured the Israel Super Cup with a commanding 3-1 victory over Hapoel Be'er Sheva, where rising star Sayed Abu Farchi announced himself with a spectacular brace. The momentum carried seamlessly into European competition, with Miller's side producing a devastating 5-0 first-leg demolition of Sheriff Tiraspol in Moldova before completing the formalities with a 1-0 win in the return fixture played in Batumi. That clean sheet in the second leg was particularly noteworthy, as defender Raz Shlomo emphasised the importance of maintaining defensive discipline alongside their obvious attacking prowess. With the club playing their European home fixtures in Georgia due to the ongoing security situation in Israel, the squad has adapted admirably to the logistical challenges, turning Batumi into a fortress of sorts.
CSKA Sofia, meanwhile, represent a fascinating proposition under the continued stewardship of Hristo Yanev, who signed a new two-year contract in May 2026 after guiding the club to Bulgarian Cup glory. The Red Army Men have shown resilience and tactical flexibility throughout their European campaign thus far, overcoming Derry City 5-3 on aggregate in the first qualifying round before grinding out a precious 0-0 away draw against Qarabağ in Baku. That result in Azerbaijan demonstrated Yanev's ability to organise his troops defensively against technically gifted opposition, a trait that will prove invaluable against Maccabi's fluid attacking unit. However, CSKA's domestic form has been somewhat patchy, and the squad has undergone significant turnover during the summer transfer window, with the arrivals of experienced Italian midfielder Stefano Sensi from Anorthosis Famagusta and Dutch striker Joël Zwarts from Lokomotiv Plovdiv adding quality but still gelling with the existing group. The Bulgarians will need to summon every ounce of their famous European fighting spirit if they are to upset the odds against a Maccabi side that appears to be hitting its stride at exactly the right moment.
Tactical Preview
Formation & Key Matchups
Maccabi Tel Aviv 4-3-3
Kenny Miller has implemented a dynamic 4-3-3 system that maximises Maccabi's wealth of attacking talent while maintaining structural solidity in midfield. The formation relies heavily on the industry and creative distribution of captain Dor Peretz, who operates as the deepest lying midfielder, recycling possession and initiating attacks with his trademark diagonal passing. Flanking Peretz are the energetic Gavriel Kanichowsky and the technically gifted Ido Shahar, who provide the bridge between defence and attack while offering late runs into the box. The front three of Sayed Abu Farchi, Osher Davida, and Hélio Varela interchanges positions constantly, making them difficult to mark, while full-backs Roy Revivo and Maor Kandil push high to provide width. This aggressive approach has yielded remarkable results, with Maccabi scoring six goals across two legs against Sheriff while keeping two clean sheets. Miller's philosophy emphasises high-tempo pressing immediately after losing possession, a tactic that has suffocated opponents in the early stages of matches.
CSKA Sofia 4-2-3-1
Hristo Yanev has favoured a pragmatic 4-2-3-1 formation that prioritises defensive organisation and quick transitions. The double pivot of Jean-Philippe Gbamin and Bruno Jordão provides a robust shield in front of the back four, with the Portuguese Jordão also carrying the ball forward when opportunities arise. The attacking midfield trio of Mohamed Brahimi, Stefano Sensi, and Max Ebong offers a blend of creativity, experience, and pace, with Sensi particularly tasked with unlocking compact defences through his incisive passing. Up front, Ioannis Pittas has been the standout performer in European competition, netting three goals in qualifying already, and his movement in behind defensive lines will be crucial if CSKA are to trouble Maccabi's backline. The full-backs, Ángelo Martino and Teodor Ivanov, are instructed to be selective with their forward forays, ensuring the defensive structure remains intact against Maccabi's dangerous wide players. Yanev's approach will likely involve absorbing pressure and looking to hit Maccabi on the counter-attack, exploiting any spaces left by the Israeli side's adventurous full-backs.
Critical Vulnerability
The decisive tactical battleground will be the space in behind Maccabi's high defensive line. Miller's full-backs push aggressively forward, leaving the centre-back pairing of Raz Shlomo and Tyrese Asante exposed to balls over the top. CSKA's most potent weapon, Ioannis Pittas, thrives on exactly this type of service, and if the Cypriot striker can time his runs to exploit the channels between Maccabi's centre-backs and full-backs, the Bulgarians could fashion genuine goal-scoring opportunities. Conversely, CSKA's defensive block will be severely tested by Maccabi's intricate passing combinations in the final third. The Bulgarian side has shown a tendency to drop too deep when under sustained pressure, and if they allow Peretz and Kanichowsky time on the ball at the edge of the area, the Israeli champions will inevitably find openings. The midfield duel between Peretz and Jordão will likely determine the tempo and territorial dominance of the match, with whichever side gains control of this zone likely dictating the outcome.
Team News & Squad Status
Maccabi Tel Aviv 🔥
- Captain Dor Peretz is available after signing a new three-year contract extension, committing his future to the club until 2029. The Israeli international has made over 438 appearances for the yellow-and-blue and remains the heartbeat of the midfield.
- Sayed Abu Farchi is in sensational form, having scored a brace in the Israel Super Cup victory over Hapoel Be'er Sheva and adding to his tally in European competition. The 20-year-old striker is rapidly establishing himself as one of the most exciting young talents in Israeli football.
- Roy Revivo scored the decisive free-kick in the 1-0 second-leg victory against Sheriff Tiraspol and has been a consistent threat from set-pieces and open play down the left flank.
- Defender Raz Shlomo has been instrumental in maintaining defensive solidity, helping the team keep consecutive clean sheets in European qualifying.
- New signing Emir Sahiti adds further attacking depth from the bench, while veteran goalkeeper Ofek Melika continues as the first-choice shot-stopper.
- The squad is virtually at full strength with no significant injury concerns reported ahead of this fixture, giving Kenny Miller a full complement of options.
CSKA Sofia ⚠️
- Ioannis Pittas is the man in form, having scored three goals in Europa League qualifying already, including a brace against Derry City. The Cypriot forward will be the primary attacking outlet.
- New arrival Stefano Sensi is still integrating into the starting eleven after his summer move from Anorthosis Famagusta. The Italian midfielder brings Serie A experience but may need time to reach peak match fitness.
- Joël Zwarts, another summer signing from Lokomotiv Plovdiv, has scored twice in pre-season and domestic competition and offers a different dimension with his physical presence up front.
- Goalkeeper Fyodor Lapoukhov has kept two clean sheets in five appearances this season and will need to be at his absolute best to repel Maccabi's potent attack.
- Defender Adrián Lapeña has yet to feature this season due to fitness issues, which could force Yanev to rely on the loan signing Facundo Rodríguez alongside Pastor in central defence.
- The squad has undergone significant summer restructuring, with several departures including Lumbardh Dellova to Turkey and the arrival of multiple new faces still finding their rhythm within Yanev's system.
Predicted Lineups
| Maccabi Tel Aviv 4-3-3 | CSKA Sofia 4-2-3-1 |
|---|---|
| GK: Ofek Melika | GK: Fyodor Lapoukhov |
| RB: Maor Kandil | RB: Ángelo Martino |
| CB: Raz Shlomo | CB: Pastor |
| CB: Tyrese Asante | CB: Facundo Rodríguez |
| LB: Roy Revivo | LB: Teodor Ivanov |
| CM: Dor Peretz (C) | DM: Jean-Philippe Gbamin |
| CM: Gavriel Kanichowsky | DM: Bruno Jordão |
| CM: Ido Shahar | RAM: Mohamed Brahimi |
| RW: Hélio Varela | CAM: Stefano Sensi |
| ST: Sayed Abu Farchi | LAM: Max Ebong |
| LW: Osher Davida | ST: Ioannis Pittas |
Head-to-Head Record
This fixture represents the very first competitive meeting between Maccabi Tel Aviv and CSKA Sofia in European competition, adding an element of unpredictability to the encounter. Neither side has faced the other in any previous UEFA tournament, meaning there is no historical data to draw upon in terms of direct matchups. However, both clubs boast rich European pedigrees that provide context for this clash. Maccabi Tel Aviv have qualified for UEFA competitions on seventeen occasions since the Israeli Football Association joined UEFA in 1992, with their most notable achievements including two Champions League group stage appearances in 2004-05 and 2015-16, as well as multiple Europa League Round of 32 qualifications. Their record 6-0 aggregate victory over Sheriff Tiraspol in the previous round equalled their largest ever European winning margin, demonstrating the formidable form they currently possess.
CSKA Sofia, meanwhile, are appearing in European competition after a two-season absence, with their Bulgarian Cup triumph securing their return to the continental stage. The club's most famous European nights include their legendary 2-0 victory over Liverpool in the 1982 European Cup quarter-finals, a result that cemented their status as one of Eastern Europe's most storied clubs. While their recent European record has been modest compared to those glory days, the current squad under Hristo Yanev has shown admirable resilience in navigating past Derry City and Qarabağ. The lack of head-to-head history means both managers will be relying heavily on video analysis and scouting reports to identify tactical weaknesses, making the opening exchanges of this first leg particularly fascinating as each side attempts to establish patterns of play without the benefit of prior familiarity.
Key Players Comparison
⚽ Dor Peretz
Maccabi Tel Aviv
Midfielder | 31 years old
Israeli Footballer of the Year 2025
438+ appearances, 85+ goals
⚽ Ioannis Pittas
CSKA Sofia
Forward | 29 years old
3 goals in Europa League qualifying
24 goals in 69 appearances for CSKA
⚽ Sayed Abu Farchi
Maccabi Tel Aviv
Forward | 20 years old
Super Cup brace, 11 goals last season
Rising star of Israeli football
⚽ Stefano Sensi
CSKA Sofia
Midfielder | 30 years old
Former Serie A player
Creative hub, set-piece specialist
The individual battles across the pitch will prove decisive in determining the outcome of this tie. In midfield, the contest between Dor Peretz and Bruno Jordão promises to be a captivating duel of contrasting styles. Peretz, the newly crowned Israeli Footballer of the Year and a veteran of over 438 appearances for Maccabi, combines defensive awareness with exceptional passing range and leadership qualities. His ability to dictate tempo and switch play quickly from defence to attack will be central to Maccabi's strategy. Jordão, the Portuguese midfielder who joined CSKA in 2025, is a more combative presence, excelling at breaking up opposition attacks and driving forward with the ball at his feet. Whichever player can impose their style on the game will likely determine which team controls possession and territory.
In the attacking third, the form of Sayed Abu Farchi presents a significant challenge for CSKA's defensive unit. The 20-year-old has been nothing short of sensational since breaking into the first team, scoring 11 goals in all competitions last season and already adding to that tally with a brace in the Super Cup and further strikes in European qualifying. His movement off the shoulder of the last defender, combined with clinical finishing from both feet, makes him a constant threat. CSKA will look to their experienced centre-back Pastor, the Brazilian who has made 42 appearances for the club, to use his physicality and reading of the game to neutralise Abu Farchi's threat. Equally, Ioannis Pittas represents CSKA's best hope of troubling the scoreboard. The Cypriot striker has been prolific in qualifying with three goals already, and his intelligent runs in behind defences could exploit the high line that Maccabi's full-backs leave exposed. The battle between Pittas and Maccabi's defensive anchor Raz Shlomo, who has been instrumental in keeping clean sheets against Sheriff, will be pivotal.
The Managers
Kenny Miller
Kenny Miller's appointment as permanent Maccabi Tel Aviv head coach in June 2026 marked the culmination of a remarkable six-month journey that began when the former Scotland striker joined the club as part of Ronny Deila's coaching staff in January. When Deila departed during the Championship Playoffs, Miller stepped up as interim manager and immediately transformed the team's fortunes, guiding them to victory in the Israel State Cup final over Hapoel Be'er Sheva. That triumph convinced owner Mitch Goldhar and sporting director Steven Vanharen to hand the 46-year-old a permanent one-year contract with an option for a further season, accompanied by assistant Stuart Taylor, goalkeeping coach Dean Kiely, and Avi Rikan.
Miller's managerial philosophy is built on high energy, attacking football with a strong emphasis on collective pressing and rapid transitions. Having played at the highest level for Celtic, Rangers, and the Scottish national team, Miller brings a wealth of experience and an understanding of the demands of European competition. His man-management skills have been particularly praised, with young striker Sayed Abu Farchi flourishing under his guidance. Miller has spoken openly about the challenges of playing European fixtures away from their traditional Bloomfield Stadium home, but has instilled a mentality that embraces the adversity. "From the moment I arrived at the club, I felt the passion, ambition and expectations that make Maccabi such a special place," Miller said upon his permanent appointment. "Competing in Europe is essential. The expectation is to reach the group stage."
Hristo Yanev
Hristo Yanev's second spell in charge of CSKA Sofia has been characterised by steady improvement and a return to winning ways. Appointed in September 2025 with the club in a precarious position, Yanev quickly stabilised the team and orchestrated a remarkable turnaround that culminated in Bulgarian Cup glory. That success convinced the CSKA hierarchy to reward him with a new two-year contract in May 2026, placing their faith in the 42-year-old to build a team capable of challenging for the Parva Liga title and making a meaningful impact in Europe. Yanev is a CSKA legend from his playing days, and his emotional connection to the club resonates deeply with supporters who have endured several turbulent seasons.
Tactically, Yanev has demonstrated flexibility, switching between possession-based football and more pragmatic counter-attacking approaches depending on the opponent. His decision to bring in experienced campaigners like Stefano Sensi and Jean-Philippe Gbamin reflects a desire to add maturity and tactical intelligence to a squad that had previously lacked leadership in high-pressure moments. Yanev acknowledged after the Qarabağ draw that his team would need to be "resilient and characterful" against Maccabi, and he has spent the days leading up to this fixture drilling his defensive unit on how to handle the Israeli champions' intricate attacking movements. The Bulgarian Cup victory has restored confidence throughout the squad, and Yanev will be urging his players to approach this tie without fear, believing that their organised defensive structure can frustrate Maccabi and create opportunities on the break.
Betting Predictions & Tips
Odds: 1.65
Maccabi Tel Aviv enter this fixture as clear favourites for good reason. Their 6-0 aggregate demolition of Sheriff Tiraspol showcased a team operating at peak efficiency, with clean sheets kept in both legs and multiple goal-scorers contributing to the rout. The attacking trio of Abu Farchi, Davida, and Varela is clicking into gear, while Dor Peretz provides the midfield control that allows the forwards to flourish. CSKA Sofia, despite their cup success, have looked vulnerable when facing technically superior opposition, as evidenced by their 0-4 pre-season friendly defeat to Polissya Zhytomyr. Maccabi's superior quality, momentum, and European experience make the home win the most reliable selection. For bettors seeking sure win predictions, this represents one of the strongest options in the Europa League qualifying schedule.
Odds: 1.85
Both teams have demonstrated attacking intent in their European campaigns to date. Maccabi have scored six goals in two qualifying matches, while CSKA have found the net five times across their four European fixtures. The tactical setup suggests an open contest, with Maccabi's high defensive line leaving space for CSKA's counter-attacks, while the Bulgarians' defensive block will be severely tested by Maccabi's relentless forward pressure. Historical data from similar qualifying ties indicates that when an in-form attacking side meets a team forced to play on the front foot, goal-scoring opportunities multiply. Our over under prediction model strongly favours the over 2.5 goals market based on expected goals data from both teams' recent performances.
Odds: 1.90
While Maccabi are deserved favourites, writing off CSKA's attacking capabilities would be a mistake. Ioannis Pittas has proven himself a lethal finisher in qualifying, and the spaces behind Maccabi's advanced full-backs offer genuine opportunities for the Cypriot striker and the pace of Max Ebong. Maccabi have shown occasional defensive lapses in domestic competition, and CSKA's set-piece threat with the delivery of Stefano Sensi adds another dimension. The GG/NG market offers appealing value for those who anticipate an entertaining, end-to-end encounter where both sides find the net.
Odds: 8.50
Our detailed analysis points toward a hard-fought contest that Maccabi ultimately win by a single goal. The Israeli side's superior quality and momentum should see them create enough chances to score twice, but CSKA's disciplined defensive organisation and counter-attacking threat through Pittas suggest they will not leave Batumi empty-handed. A 2-1 scoreline reflects the balance between Maccabi's attacking dominance and CSKA's resilience, offering excellent value in the correct score tips market for punters seeking higher returns.
Odds: 2.10
The 20-year-old striker is in the form of his life, having scored a brace in the Super Cup and added to his European tally against Sheriff Tiraspol. His movement, confidence, and finishing ability make him a constant threat, and at odds of 2.10, the anytime goalscorer market offers a speculative but potentially rewarding angle. Abu Farchi has spoken openly about his hunger for goals and his desire to improve on last season's tally of 11, and with the creative talents of Peretz and Kanichowsky supplying him, he will have opportunities. For those exploring hot predictions, backing the in-form forward to continue his scoring streak is a compelling option.
📊 Final Score Prediction
Match Analysis
Our prediction of a 2-1 victory for Maccabi Tel Aviv is founded on a comprehensive analysis of both teams' form, tactical setups, and squad quality heading into this third qualifying round first leg. Maccabi have been nothing short of exceptional under Kenny Miller, combining free-flowing attacking football with a newfound defensive solidity that saw them keep consecutive clean sheets against Sheriff Tiraspol while scoring six goals at the other end. The yellow-and-blue possess match-winners across the pitch, from the midfield mastery of Dor Peretz to the predatory instincts of Sayed Abu Farchi and the creative flair of Osher Davida. Playing in Batumi has not disrupted their rhythm; if anything, the squad has embraced the neutral venue as an opportunity to build a fortress away from home.
CSKA Sofia will not make life easy for the Israeli champions. Hristo Yanev has moulded a disciplined, organised unit that knows its strengths and plays to them. The Bulgarian Cup triumph has instilled a winning mentality, and the European experience of players like Sensi and Gbamin will be invaluable in managing the occasion. We expect CSKA to frustrate Maccabi for long periods, potentially even taking a surprise lead through a set-piece or counter-attack, with Ioannis Pittas the most likely source. However, Maccabi's superior depth, quality, and relentless attacking pressure should eventually tell. We anticipate the breakthrough coming in the second half, with Abu Farchi and substitute impact potentially deciding a tight contest. For those looking for additional betting angles, the draw no bet predictions market on Maccabi offers a safety net, while the banker of the day selection would firmly point toward a home victory.
Key Insights & Statistics
- Maccabi Tel Aviv have won their last five competitive matches across all competitions, scoring 14 goals and conceding just one during that run.
- The yellow-and-blue kept clean sheets in both legs against Sheriff Tiraspol, a significant improvement in defensive consistency compared to previous European campaigns.
- Sayed Abu Farchi has scored in each of his last three competitive appearances, including the Super Cup and European qualifying.
- CSKA Sofia's Ioannis Pittas has netted three goals in Europa League qualifying, making him the joint-top scorer in the competition at this stage.
- This is the first ever competitive meeting between the two clubs; there is no previous head-to-head record to analyse.
- Maccabi are playing their European home fixtures at Batumi Stadium, Georgia, due to the security situation in Israel, but have won both matches held there so far.
- CSKA Sofia have kept two clean sheets in their five competitive matches this season, both coming in European competition against Derry City and Qarabağ.
- Dor Peretz was named Israeli Footballer of the Year for 2025 and has started the 2026/27 season in outstanding form, controlling midfield tempo with remarkable consistency.
- CSKA's summer signings Joël Zwarts and Stefano Sensi are still integrating into the starting eleven, with only five competitive appearances between them.
- Maccabi Tel Aviv have reached the Europa League group stage in each of the past two seasons and are targeting a third consecutive qualification.
- The winner of this tie will advance to the playoff round, where victory guarantees a place in at least the UEFA Conference League group stage.
- European odds place Maccabi Tel Aviv as strong favourites at 1.65, with the draw priced at 3.60 and a CSKA Sofia victory at 5.50.
- Both teams have scored in four of CSKA Sofia's five competitive matches this season, suggesting defensive vulnerabilities remain.
- Kenny Miller has won seven of his eight matches in charge of Maccabi Tel Aviv since taking over as interim manager in May 2026.
- Hristo Yanev has lost only one of his last twelve matches as CSKA Sofia manager, a run that includes the Bulgarian Cup triumph.
Conclusion
The UEFA Europa League third qualifying round first leg between Maccabi Tel Aviv and CSKA Sofia promises to be a compelling encounter that pits an in-form Israeli powerhouse against a resilient Bulgarian cup winner with ambitions of restoring their former European glory. Maccabi Tel Aviv enter the fixture as deserved favourites, buoyed by a flawless start to the 2026/27 season that has already delivered silverware in the shape of the Israel Super Cup and a devastating European qualifying performance against Sheriff Tiraspol. Under Kenny Miller's astute management, the yellow-and-blue have discovered a potent blend of attacking flair and defensive discipline, with young striker Sayed Abu Farchi emerging as one of the most exciting prospects in Israeli football and captain Dor Peretz providing the experience and leadership that only a player with over 438 club appearances can offer.
CSKA Sofia, however, cannot be dismissed lightly. Hristo Yanev has engineered a remarkable turnaround since taking charge in September 2025, and the Bulgarian Cup victory has restored belief throughout the club. The arrivals of seasoned professionals like Stefano Sensi and Jean-Philippe Gbamin have added much-needed quality and tactical intelligence, while Ioannis Pittas has proven himself a genuine goal threat at the European level. The Bulgarians' ability to grind out results against technically gifted opposition, as demonstrated by their 0-0 draw away to Qarabağ, suggests they have the defensive organisation to frustrate Maccabi for significant periods of this contest. For readers seeking further betting guidance or looking to explore live betting strategies for this match, understanding the tactical nuances outlined in this preview will prove invaluable.
Ultimately, we anticipate Maccabi Tel Aviv's superior squad depth, European experience, and devastating early-season form proving decisive. Our predicted scoreline of 2-1 reflects a contest where the Israeli champions control possession and territory but are forced to work hard for their victory by a CSKA side that defends resolutely and threatens on the counter-attack. The second leg in Sofia will still be alive, but Maccabi will travel to Bulgaria with a narrow advantage and the confidence of a team that knows exactly what it takes to reach the Europa League group stage. For punters, the home win, over 2.5 goals, and both teams to score markets all offer compelling value, while the correct score of 2-1 provides an attractive longer-odds option. Be sure to check our live scores page for real-time updates and follow our betting strategy guides to maximise your returns throughout the Europa League qualifying campaign.
