Noah vs Sion: Match Preview, Predictions and Betting Tips
Published on Tuesday, 04 August 2026 by Steve
Noah vs Sion
UEFA Conference League 2026/27 Third Qualifying Round Prediction & Betting Tips
Match Overview
FC Noah - Armenia - Games, Standings, Squad and Stats
On Thursday evening, Armenian football takes center stage as FC Noah welcome Swiss Super League outfit FC Sion to the Abovyan City Stadium for the first leg of the UEFA Conference League 2026/27 third qualifying round. This fixture represents a fascinating clash of footballing cultures, pitting one of Armenia's most ambitious and rapidly rising clubs against a historic Swiss institution with decades of European pedigree. For Noah, the match offers another opportunity to underline their remarkable progress since rebranding from FC Artsakh in 2019, while Sion will view this tie as a crucial step toward re-establishing themselves as regular competitors on the continental stage. Fans seeking daily football predictions have identified this encounter as one of the most intriguing qualification ties of the week, with both teams bringing contrasting styles and tactical approaches that promise an absorbing 90 minutes of action.
Noah enter this fixture riding a wave of confidence following their domestic and European exploits. The Abovyan-based club, which claimed its first-ever Armenian Premier League title in 2024/25 and followed it up with another cup triumph, has already navigated one qualifying round by defeating Moldovan side Zimbru Chișinău 3-2 on aggregate. Their 2-1 home victory in the second leg demonstrated the kind of resilience and attacking verve that has become their trademark under Croatian coach Sandro Perković. Meanwhile, Sion arrive in Armenia after an emphatic 5-1 aggregate dismissal of Belarusian giants BATE Borisov, a result that sent a clear statement of intent to the rest of the competition. The Swiss side, managed by French tactician Didier Tholot, finished fourth in the 2025/26 Swiss Super League and will be determined to avoid any slip-ups against a motivated opponent. Those interested in over/under betting markets should note that both teams have shown a propensity for goal-filled encounters in recent weeks, making this tie particularly attractive from a wagering perspective.
The significance of this match extends beyond the immediate prize of a place in the play-off round. For Noah, continued European progression would further cement their status as Armenia's leading footballing export, building on their historic achievements in previous Conference League campaigns where they became the first Armenian club to reach the league phase and, subsequently, the knockout play-offs. Sion, on the other hand, are desperate to return to the group stages of a European competition for the first time in several years, knowing that the financial and sporting rewards on offer could transform their domestic ambitions. With the return leg scheduled for August 13 at the Stade de Tourbillon, both managers will be acutely aware that the tie could be decided by fine margins in this opening encounter. Supporters looking for live football streaming options will find multiple platforms covering this fixture, ensuring that fans across Europe and beyond can witness what promises to be a compelling tactical battle between two well-organized sides.
Tactical Preview
Noah vs Sion prediction: expert analysis, possible lineups, August 6, 2026 – Ratingbet.com
Formation & Key Matchups
Noah 4-1-4-1
Sandro Perković has refined a fluid 4-1-4-1 system that maximizes Noah's technical strengths while providing defensive solidity against superior opposition. The formation relies heavily on the defensive midfield pivot, where Takuto Oshima acts as the crucial screen in front of the back four, allowing the more creative players to express themselves further up the pitch. The wide areas are particularly important to Noah's approach, with Hélder Ferreira and Marin Jakoliš providing width and direct running that can stretch even the most organized defenses. In central areas, Gor Manvelyan and Gustavo Sangaré form a dynamic partnership that combines goal-scoring threat with progressive passing. The system is designed to transition quickly from defense to attack, utilizing the pace of Mario González as the lone striker who drops deep to link play before making runs in behind. Those analyzing modern tactical evolutions will appreciate how Perković has adapted continental principles to suit the unique demands of Armenian football, creating a hybrid style that is both pragmatic and entertaining.
Sion 4-2-3-1
Didier Tholot favors a structured 4-2-3-1 formation that emphasizes positional discipline and controlled build-up play. The double pivot of Baltazar and Ali Kabacalman provides the defensive foundation, allowing the attacking midfield trio of Franck Surdez, Winsley Boteli, and Ylyas Chouaref to operate in the half-spaces between opposition lines. This approach requires patient circulation of the ball, with full-backs Nias Hefti and Numa Lavanchy pushing high to provide width when the inside forwards cut centrally. The system is particularly effective against teams that press aggressively, as the two holding midfielders create natural passing lanes that can bypass the first line of pressure. Rilind Nivokazi leads the line with intelligent movement that creates space for the runners behind him. Bettors exploring first-half betting strategies should consider that Sion typically takes time to establish their rhythm, often growing into matches after the 30-minute mark as their positional structure begins to dominate proceedings.
Critical Vulnerability
The most significant tactical vulnerability in this fixture concerns Noah's high defensive line when playing against teams with pace in wide areas. Sion's wingers, particularly Ylyas Chouaref and Franck Surdez, possess the kind of acceleration that can exploit space behind the Armenian side's full-backs if they commit too aggressively to attacking transitions. Conversely, Sion's tendency to compress play centrally leaves them susceptible to switches of play, which is precisely where Noah's wide players excel. The battle between David Sualehe's overlapping runs and Nias Hefti's defensive positioning on Sion's right flank could prove decisive. Additionally, set-piece situations represent a potential goldmine for both teams, with Noah's Stone Mambo and Nathanaël Saintini offering significant aerial threat, while Sion's Jan Kronig and Noé Sow are equally dominant in defensive and offensive dead-ball scenarios. Readers interested in corner betting markets may find value in exploring the over on total corners, given both teams' reliance on wide play and set-piece delivery.
Team News & Squad Status
Noah 🔥
- ✅ Squad Status: Nearly full strength with no major injury concerns reported ahead of this crucial European tie.
- ✅ Form: Unbeaten in last 5 competitive matches across all competitions, including the 3-2 aggregate victory over Zimbru Chișinău in the previous qualifying round.
- ✅ Domestic Form: Opened the 2026/27 Armenian Premier League campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Syunik, demonstrating sharpness and cohesion.
- ⚠️ Minor Concern: Center-back Gonçalo Silva is carrying a slight knock but trained normally and should be available for selection.
- ⭐ Key Return: Captain Hovhannes Hambardzumyan is fully fit and expected to lead the side from right-back, providing crucial leadership and experience.
- 📈 European Experience: This represents Noah's third consecutive European campaign, giving them valuable know-how at this level that many Armenian clubs lack.
Sion ⚡
- ❌ Injury Blow: Experienced attacking midfielder Benjamin Kololli is ruled out with a muscle injury sustained in training, depriving Tholot of a key creative outlet.
- ❌ Defensive Absence: Center-back Kreshnik Hajrizi remains sidelined with a long-term knee issue, forcing a continued partnership between Jan Kronig and Noé Sow.
- ✅ Form: Mixed start to the season with a 2-4 defeat to Young Boys followed by an impressive 3-0 win over Luzern in Swiss Super League action.
- ✅ European Form: Cruised past BATE Borisov 5-1 on aggregate, including a dominant 4-0 home victory that showcased their attacking potential.
- ⭐ Positive News: Winger Liam Chipperfield has returned to full training and could feature from the bench, adding fresh impetus to Sion's wide play.
- 🎯 Tactical Note: Manager Didier Tholot has experimented with a more aggressive pressing scheme in recent weeks, which could be deployed to unsettle Noah's build-up play.
Predicted Lineups
| Noah 4-1-4-1 | Sion 4-2-3-1 |
|---|---|
| Dani Figueira (GK) | Anthony Racioppi (GK) |
| Hovhannes Hambardzumyan (RB) | Nias Hefti (RB) |
| Stone Mambo (CB) | Jan Kronig (CB) |
| Nathanaël Saintini (CB) | Noé Sow (CB) |
| David Sualehe (LB) | Numa Lavanchy (LB) |
| Takuto Oshima (CDM) | Baltazar (CDM) |
| Marin Jakoliš (RM) | Ali Kabacalman (CDM) |
| Gor Manvelyan (CM) | Franck Surdez (RAM) |
| Gustavo Sangaré (CM) | Winsley Boteli (CAM) |
| Hélder Ferreira (LM) | Ylyas Chouaref (LAM) |
| Mario González (ST) | Rilind Nivokazi (ST) |
Head-to-Head Record
This fixture marks the very first competitive meeting between FC Noah and FC Sion, adding an element of unpredictability that excites neutrals and challenges bettors alike. The absence of historical data means that both coaching staffs must rely heavily on video analysis and scouting reports to identify tendencies and weaknesses in their opponents' recent performances. For Noah, facing a Swiss Super League side represents a significant step up in quality from their second-round encounter with Zimbru Chișinău, though their experiences against the likes of AEK Athens, Ružomberok, and AZ Alkmaar in previous European campaigns have equipped them with the tactical maturity required to compete at this level. Sion, meanwhile, will be wary of underestimating an Armenian side that has consistently punched above its weight in continental competition, having witnessed firsthand how supposedly smaller clubs can cause upsets in the unpredictable environment of European qualification. Those researching accurate football results will find that both teams have demonstrated remarkable consistency in their respective leagues, making this virgin encounter all the more compelling from an analytical standpoint.
While there is no direct head-to-head history to analyze, both clubs have accumulated valuable European experience against diverse opposition that offers some insight into how this tie might unfold. Noah's journey through the 2024/25 Conference League qualifying rounds saw them defeat Shkëndija, Sliema Wanderers, and AEK Athens before overcoming Ružomberok in the play-offs, a run that required them to adapt to various tactical systems and playing styles. Their subsequent league phase campaign, which included matches against Chelsea, Rapid Wien, and Mladá Boleslav, provided invaluable exposure to high-intensity continental football. Sion's European pedigree is equally impressive, with the club having competed in the UEFA Cup and Europa League on multiple occasions throughout their 117-year history. Their recent 5-1 aggregate victory over BATE Borisov demonstrated their ability to control two-legged ties against technically proficient opponents. Bettors seeking effective prediction strategies should focus on recent form metrics, expected goals data, and qualitative factors such as travel fatigue and squad depth rather than historical head-to-head statistics, which are non-existent for this particular pairing.
Key Players Comparison
🎯 Gor Manvelyan
Noah's midfield engine and captain-in-waiting, Manvelyan has been instrumental in the club's rise, contributing 10 goals and 8 assists in the 2025/26 campaign. His ability to arrive late in the box and his exceptional vision for defense-splitting passes make him the heartbeat of Perković's system. With 103 appearances for the club, his experience will be vital against Sion's disciplined midfield block.
⚡ Ylyas Chouaref
Sion's most dangerous creative outlet, Chouaref combines blistering pace with exquisite close control that allows him to beat defenders in one-on-one situations. The 25-year-old French-born attacker has already registered 3 goals and 4 assists in his first four appearances of the 2026/27 season, including a standout performance against BATE Borisov where he tormented the Belarusian defense with his direct running.
🛡️ Stone Mambo
The French center-back has developed into one of the most reliable defenders in Armenian football since joining Noah in 2024. Standing at 6'2" with exceptional aerial ability, Mambo is equally comfortable playing out from the back as he is engaging in physical battles with opposing strikers. His partnership with Nathanaël Saintini forms the defensive bedrock upon which Noah's European ambitions rest.
🧤 Anthony Racioppi
Sion's Swiss international goalkeeper brings Premier League experience from his time in England, combined with the kind of commanding presence that organizes defenses and dominates his penalty area. At 27, Racioppi is entering his prime and has already produced several match-winning saves in the early stages of the 2026/27 season. His distribution from the back is a key component of Tholot's build-up philosophy.
The individual battles across the pitch will ultimately determine the outcome of this closely contested tie. In central midfield, the duel between Gor Manvelyan's intelligent movement and Ali Kabacalman's positional discipline promises to be a fascinating chess match that could dictate the tempo of the entire game. Out wide, the pace of Hélder Ferreira against the experienced Numa Lavanchy offers a classic youth-versus-experience narrative, while Mario González's clever link-up play will test Jan Kronig's ability to defend high up the pitch. For Sion, the creativity of Winsley Boteli in the number 10 role could unlock Noah's compact defensive shape if he is afforded too much time between the lines. Fans who enjoy advanced football metrics will be tracking expected goals, progressive passes, and defensive actions data to assess which key players are winning their individual matchups as the game unfolds. The psychological dimension cannot be overlooked either; with both clubs carrying the weight of their respective nations' European expectations, the players who embrace the occasion rather than shrink from it will likely prove the difference makers.
The Managers
Sandro Perković
The Croatian tactician has orchestrated one of the most remarkable transformations in recent European football since taking charge of Noah in 2023. Perković inherited a club with ambition but limited top-level experience and systematically built a squad capable of competing with teams from far more established footballing nations. His coaching philosophy emphasizes tactical flexibility, with Noah equally comfortable dominating possession against weaker domestic opponents and executing counter-attacking strategies against superior European sides. The 2024/25 season represented the culmination of his work, as Noah secured a historic league and cup double before becoming the first Armenian club to reach the Conference League knockout phase. Perković's man-management skills have been equally impressive, creating a squad culture where experienced internationals like Hélder Ferreira and Gustavo Sangaré blend seamlessly with homegrown talents such as Gor Manvelyan and Zaven Khudaverdyan. Those studying successful betting methodologies should note that Perković's teams are notoriously difficult to break down in first-leg away scenarios, though this home fixture presents different challenges.
Perković's preparation for European ties has become the stuff of legend within Armenian football circles. His video analysis sessions are renowned for their detail, with players receiving individualized scouting reports that highlight not only opposition weaknesses but also specific opportunities tailored to their own strengths. Against Sion, he will likely instruct his wide players to exploit the spaces behind the Swiss full-backs when they push forward, while demanding that his central midfielders maintain compactness to prevent Sion's creative trio from operating in dangerous areas. The Croatian's ability to make in-game adjustments has saved Noah on numerous occasions, and his calm demeanor on the touchline instills confidence in a squad that has occasionally struggled with the pressure of high-stakes European nights. Bettors consulting live betting strategy guides should monitor Perković's substitution patterns, as he typically makes his first change around the 60-minute mark to exploit tiring opposition defenses.
Didier Tholot
Didier Tholot brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished managerial résumé to the Sion dugout, having previously coached clubs in France, Switzerland, and beyond during a career spanning nearly two decades. The 62-year-old Frenchman, who enjoyed a respectable playing career as a forward, returned to Sion in June 2023 for his second spell in charge, having previously guided the club between 2009 and 2010. Tholot is renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to organize teams that are structurally sound and difficult to break down. His second stint at Sion has seen him implement a more progressive style of play than his first tenure, with the 2025/26 Swiss Super League campaign yielding a fourth-place finish and this promising European run. Tholot's experience in two-legged ties will be invaluable; he understands the delicate balance between attacking ambition and defensive caution that first-leg away fixtures demand. Punters exploring live betting opportunities should recognize that Tholot's sides often improve as matches progress, making second-half markets particularly interesting when Sion are involved.
Tholot's man-management approach is characterized by clear communication and defined roles, ensuring that every player understands their responsibilities within the collective framework. He has been instrumental in developing young Swiss talents like Winsley Boteli and Liam Chipperfield while also maximizing the contributions of experienced campaigners such as Numa Lavanchy and Benjamin Kololli. The Frenchman's tactical acumen was on full display during the BATE Borisov tie, where Sion produced a disciplined away performance in the first leg before unleashing their attacking arsenal in the commanding 4-0 home victory. Against Noah, Tholot will be wary of the Armenian side's counter-attacking threat and may opt for a slightly more conservative approach than usual, prioritizing control of possession and minimizing risk in defensive transition. His decision-making regarding the absent Benjamin Kololli will be crucial; whether he replaces the injured playmaker with a like-for-like creative option or adjusts his system to compensate will reveal much about his tactical priorities for this tie. Readers interested in advanced live betting analysis should pay close attention to Sion's pressing intensity in the opening 20 minutes, as Tholot often uses this period to establish territorial dominance before settling into a more controlled rhythm.
Betting Predictions & Tips
Odds: 2.80
Despite playing away from home, Sion's superior squad depth, tactical discipline, and experience at this level make them the most reliable selection for this fixture. The Swiss side demonstrated their quality by dismantling BATE Borisov 4-0 in the second leg of the previous round, and their attacking weapons should prove too much for Noah's defense over 90 minutes. The European odds of 2.80 represent genuine value for a team of Sion's caliber against opposition from a less competitive domestic league. Tholot's side has shown they can perform on the road, and their controlled possession style should frustrate Noah's attempts to dictate the tempo.
Odds: 1.60
This market offers excellent value given the attacking intent both sides have displayed in their recent European fixtures. Noah have scored in 8 of their last 10 home European matches, while Sion found the net in both legs against BATE and have attacking options capable of exploiting the Armenian defense. The both teams to score market is particularly appealing when two attack-minded teams meet in qualification ties where the pressure to secure a positive result often leads to open, end-to-end football. With players like Gor Manvelyan and Mario González for Noah, and Ylyas Chouaref and Rilind Nivokazi for Sion, there is more than enough firepower on display to justify this selection at odds that still offer reasonable returns.
Odds: 1.85
The tactical setups employed by both managers suggest that this match will feature plenty of goalmouth action. Noah's high defensive line and aggressive pressing create space in behind that Sion's pacey attackers are perfectly equipped to exploit, while the Swiss side's commitment to playing out from the back occasionally exposes them to turnovers in dangerous areas. The over/under predictions for this fixture strongly favor the over, with Noah's last 6 home European games averaging 3.2 goals per match and Sion's recent 4-0 demolition of BATE evidence of their attacking potency. At 1.85, the over 2.5 goals line offers a compelling combination of probability and payout that appeals to both conservative and adventurous bettors.
Odds: 2.10
Focusing specifically on Sion's attacking output provides an alternative angle for those who believe the Swiss side will control proceedings but are uncertain about Noah's ability to contribute to the goal count. Sion scored 4 goals against BATE Borisov in their home leg and have shown in Swiss Super League action that they can find multiple ways to hurt opponents, whether through intricate passing combinations or direct balls over the top for their pacey forwards. The live betting markets may offer enhanced odds on this selection if the game remains goalless beyond the 30-minute mark, but the pre-match price of 2.10 already represents solid value for a team of Sion's offensive capabilities.
Odds: 8.50
For those seeking higher returns, the correct score market offers an intriguing opportunity at generous odds. A 1-2 victory for Sion would represent the ideal outcome for the Swiss side, giving them a narrow advantage to defend in the return leg while avoiding the risks associated with a more expansive approach. Noah's home record in Europe suggests they will find the net at least once, but Sion's quality and experience should see them edge the contest by a single goal. The correct score betting tips for this fixture highlight that 1-2 is the most likely exact outcome based on expected goals modeling and historical patterns in two-legged European ties. While inherently riskier than match result markets, the 8.50 odds provide an attractive risk-reward ratio for speculative stakes.
📊 Final Score Prediction
Match Analysis
Our prediction of a 1-2 victory for FC Sion is grounded in a comprehensive analysis of both teams' recent form, tactical setups, squad quality, and the specific demands of first-leg away fixtures in European qualification. Sion's superior individual quality in key positions, particularly in attacking areas where Ylyas Chouaref and Rilind Nivokazi offer genuine match-winning ability, gives them the edge in what promises to be a tightly contested encounter. The Swiss side's 4-0 demolition of BATE Borisov in the previous round demonstrated that they can be devastating when their creative players find rhythm, and while Noah's compact defensive structure will make life more difficult than the Belarusians did, Sion's patience and positional intelligence should eventually yield opportunities. Noah are unlikely to be overawed by the occasion, however, and their own European experience means they will not simply sit back and invite pressure. We anticipate that Gor Manvelyan or Mario González will find a way past Anthony Racioppi at least once, capitalizing on a rare moment of Swiss defensive indecision. Those following full-time prediction markets will find that our 1-2 forecast aligns with the broader consensus among European football analysts, who view Sion as narrow favorites in a fixture that could genuinely go either way.
The second-half dynamics will likely prove decisive, as Sion's superior physical conditioning and squad depth allow them to maintain their intensity while Noah's key players begin to tire. Tholot's tactical adjustments, potentially introducing Liam Chipperfield or Donat Rrudhani from the bench, could provide the fresh impetus required to break down a stubborn Armenian defense in the final 30 minutes. Conversely, Perković will be hoping that his side can maintain their concentration for the full 90 minutes, knowing that a 1-2 deficit would still leave them within touching distance ahead of the return leg in Switzerland. The first-half betting markets may offer value on a draw at the interval, as both managers are likely to prioritize organizational solidity in the opening 45 minutes before opening up in search of a crucial away goal or decisive home advantage. Ultimately, Sion's extra quality in the final third and their greater experience in managing two-legged European ties should see them return to Switzerland with a narrow but deserved advantage.
Key Insights & Statistics
- 🔥 Noah's Home Form: The Armenian side has won 6 of their last 8 home European qualifying matches, scoring 18 goals and conceding just 7 in the process.
- ⚡ Sion's European Pedigree: FC Sion have won 13 Swiss Cup titles and have previously reached the UEFA Cup quarter-finals, giving them a significant historical advantage over their less experienced opponents.
- 🎯 Both Teams Scoring Trend: In Noah's last 10 competitive fixtures, both teams have found the net on 7 occasions, highlighting the open nature of their recent matches.
- 🛡️ Defensive Records: Sion kept a clean sheet in 3 of their 4 European qualification matches this season, while Noah have conceded in 4 of their last 5 home games across all competitions.
- ⚽ Goal Scoring Patterns: Noah's Gor Manvelyan has scored 4 goals in his last 6 European home appearances, making him the most likely source of an Armenian goal in this fixture.
- 📊 Possession Battle: Sion averaged 58% possession in their two matches against BATE Borisov, while Noah managed just 47% against Zimbru Chișinău, suggesting the Swiss side will dominate the ball.
- 🌍 Travel Factor: Sion will travel approximately 3,200 kilometers to reach Yerevan, though modern travel arrangements and the 4-day gap since their domestic fixture should minimize fatigue concerns.
- 💰 Market Value Disparity: Sion's squad is valued at approximately €18 million, more than triple Noah's estimated squad value of €5.5 million, underlining the gulf in resources between the two clubs.
- 🎲 Bookmaker Consensus: European bookmakers have installed Sion as slight favorites at 2.80, with Noah priced at 2.40 and the draw available at 3.20, reflecting the unpredictable nature of this first-ever meeting.
- 🏆 Qualification History: Noah have progressed from 4 of their 5 previous European qualifying ties, while Sion have advanced from 6 of their last 8, indicating that both clubs know how to navigate two-legged contests.
Conclusion
The UEFA Conference League third qualifying round tie between Noah and Sion represents everything that makes European football's tertiary competition so compelling: a genuine clash of cultures, a meeting of established pedigree and rising ambition, and a tactical battle that promises to engage even the most casual observer. While FC Sion enter this first leg as narrow favorites based on squad quality, domestic league standing, and historical European experience, FC Noah have repeatedly demonstrated that they are not a club to be underestimated on the continental stage. Their remarkable journey from Armenian First League newcomers to multiple trophy winners and European knockout phase participants in less than a decade is testament to the vision of president Vardges Vardanyan and the tactical brilliance of coach Sandro Perković. For bettors and football enthusiasts alike, this fixture offers a wealth of opportunities to engage with the sport at its most unpredictable and exciting level. Those seeking detailed soccer betting guidance will find that this match exemplifies the importance of looking beyond surface-level statistics to understand the qualitative factors that influence European qualification ties.
From a wagering perspective, the markets have priced this encounter with commendable accuracy, acknowledging Noah's formidable home record while respecting Sion's clear technical superiority. Our recommended approach combines the Sion match victory at 2.80 with the both teams to score market at 1.60, creating a balanced portfolio that accounts for the most probable outcomes while still offering attractive returns. The speculative correct score selection of 1-2 at 8.50 provides an additional layer of excitement for those willing to accept the inherent risks of exact score betting. Regardless of your betting strategy, it is essential to approach this fixture with the same discipline and analytical rigor that both managers will apply from the dugout. Responsible betting practices should always underpin any wagering activity, with stakes limited to amounts that do not impact financial wellbeing or emotional health.
As the final whistle blows at the Abovyan City Stadium on August 6, 2026, football fans will hopefully have witnessed a contest that lives up to the pre-match hype and sets up a fascinating return leg in the Swiss Alps. Whether Noah can defy the odds to secure a result that keeps their European dream alive, or Sion can establish the kind of advantage that makes them overwhelming favorites for the second leg, remains to be seen. What is certain is that both clubs will leave everything on the pitch in pursuit of a place in the Conference League play-off round, where the winner of this tie will face either Shelbourne or an opponent from the Champions League qualifying path. For now, all eyes turn to Armenia, where the next chapter in this captivating European story is about to be written. Be sure to check our tomorrow's football predictions for continued coverage of this tie and all the latest European qualification action as the 2026/27 season gathers momentum.
