Verdict: Draw
Best odds: 21/10
Bookmaker: Luckster
HNK Rijeka, eyeing a spot in the Champions League league phase, will welcome Ludogorets Razgrad to Stadion Rujevica on Tuesday for the opening leg of their second qualifying round clash.
The Rijecki bijeli will be eager to avoid carrying their inconsistent friendly form into UEFA action, while the Eagles look to maintain momentum after a commanding win in the Parva Liga.
HNK Rijeka
Under Radomir Dalovic, Rijeka begin their Champions League qualification at the second round, having secured their second Croatian top-flight title in the 2024/25 season. After last appearing in the competition in 2017-18, they will be determined to make it to the main tournament once again.
In European competition last season, the Rijecki bijeli exited the Europa League qualifiers and later fell in the Conference League playoff round, suffering a 6-1 aggregate loss to Olimpija Ljubljana.
Ahead of this week’s encounter, Dalovic’s men have suffered two defeats in their last three outings, and although friendlies rarely offer a clear picture, supporters may still be concerned.
Adding to the challenge, Rijeka are short on competitive rhythm, with the domestic season having concluded. Since late May, they have featured in only five friendlies, suggesting they may lack sharpness.
Even so, the visitors might carry quiet optimism â€" despite a 1-0 home defeat to Goztepe on July 13 â€" as they have claimed victory in six of their last seven competitive home matches.
Team News
Following their preparations in friendly matches, Rijeka are expected to field the same starting lineup that featured against Goztepe, with Duje Cop leading the line, flanked by Luka Menalo and Niko Jankovic on the wings.
In midfield, Dejan Petrovic is set to anchor the space ahead of the defence, while Merveille Ndockyt and Toni Fruk are likely to take up box-to-box duties.
Ludogorets Razgrad
Rui Mona̢۪s Ludogorets began their qualification journey by clinching the Bulgarian top-flight crown in 2024-25, and they now aim to reach the group or league phase of the Champions League for the first time since 2016-17.
The previous European campaign proved disappointing for Eagles supporters, as their team endured a winless Europa League run, finishing 33rd overall with four draws and four defeats from eight matches.
Mona̢۪s side edged Dinamo Minsk 3-2 on aggregate in the first round, though the coach may be troubled by the need for a late extra-time goal from Eric Bille to recover after throwing away a two-goal cushion.
Still, having scored in both legs and sealed the tie away from home, Ludogorets may take encouragement into this midweek fixture.
Earning a draw in the first leg would represent a positive outcome, especially in light of their recent away form â€" two draws and two defeats from their past four road games.
Team News
Eric Bille is expected to lead the line again after scoring against Septemvri Sofia on Saturday, supported by an attacking trio of Stanislav Ivanov, Ivaylo Chochev, and Erick Marcus.
Should more attacking intent be required, Mona could call upon winger Caio Vidal from the bench.
In midfield, Pedro Naressi will likely partner Deroy Duarte in front of the back four, shielding central defenders Edvin Kurtulus and Olivier Verdon.
Conclusion
Rijeka have shown solidity at home in recent months, though their lack of competitive action since late May may lead to a sluggish start.
By contrast, Ludogorets could benefit from the momentum of their first-round victory, which may help them settle quickly and carry a favourable result into the return leg.
Verdict: Draw
Best odds: 21/10
Bookmaker: Luckster