Champions League

Levski Sofia

22 Jul 2026 18:30

Universitatea Craiova

Prediction:

Levski Sofia to win 2.00

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Levski SofiaDraw Universitatea Craiova

Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova Predictions, Picks & Odds – 22/07/2026

Champions League · 2nd Qualifying Round

Our prediction

1X: Double Chance Levski Sofia or Draw

2.00 on Stake · Confidence Medium

Odds recorded on 22 Jul 2026 at 21:07 · Odds are subject to change

Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova Preview

Levski Sofia arrive at the Vivacom Arena riding a remarkable ten-game unbeaten streak, conceding just 0.6 goals per match across that run. Their historic Bulgarian title triumph ended Ludogorets' 14-year stranglehold on the league, and confidence is sky-high. Manager Julio Velazquez rotated his squad for a 2-1 league win over Dunav Ruse but is expected to restore his strongest lineup after the emphatic 4-0 demolition of Borac Banja Luka in the previous qualifying round.

Universitatea Craiova pose a serious threat as visitors, arriving unbeaten in 15 consecutive matches stretching back to April. Their own domestic title was equally momentous, ending a 35-year wait for the Romanian SuperLiga crown. Manager Filipe Coelho opened the new league season with a commanding 4-0 victory against UTA Arad, rotating his squad and still seeing substitutes deliver telling contributions. This is the first competitive meeting between these two clubs, adding intrigue to an already fascinating tie.

Levski Sofia's double chance covering home win or draw looks the strongest angle here. Their ten-game unbeaten run is built on defensive solidity, averaging only 0.6 goals conceded per match across that stretch. At home, manager Julio Velazquez is expected to restore the same XI that dismantled Borac Banja Luka 4-0, and that continuity matters in a first-leg scenario where caution is paramount.

Universitatea Craiova's 15-match unbeaten record since April demands respect, yet their away credentials in European competition remain untested this season. Craiova opened their domestic campaign with a 4-0 rout of UTA Arad, but manager Filipe Coelho rotated heavily, suggesting fitness management ahead of this tie. The visitors will likely prioritise not conceding rather than chasing an away win outright.

Backing the 1X double chance, referenced through the home price at 2.00, captures both a Levski victory and a draw in a fixture where neither side has reason to overcommit. The under 2.5 goals market at N/A also merits consideration given both managers' tactical pragmatism in qualifying rounds. Odds correct at time of publication.

Trends to Know about Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova

• Levski unbeaten in last ten fixtures
• Levski concede only 0.6 goals per game
• Craiova unbeaten in fifteen consecutive matches

Both sides line up with attacking intent as Levski Sofia's 4-2-3-1 meets Universitatea Craiova's 3-4-3 in what promises to be an open, high-tempo Champions League qualifier. The Bulgarian outfit's double pivot will be key to containing Craiova's wide-forward trio, who carry genuine pace and technical quality across the front three.

Levski's Armstrong Oko-Flex operating in the attacking midfield zone is one to watch, while Alexandru Cicaldau pulls the strings centrally for the Romanian visitors. With both probable XIs showing confidence and depth on the bench, the tactical battle in the middle third could well decide who advances to the next qualifying round.

How to Watch Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova Match?

What time is Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova?

Levski Sofia host Universitatea Craiova on 22 July 2026, with kickoff scheduled for 18:30 BST.

Where is Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova being played?

This match takes place at the Vivacom Arena – Georgi Asparuhov in Sofia, Bulgaria.

How Can I Watch Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova on TV and Live Stream?

Check local listings for Champions League qualifying broadcast details in your region. Odds correct at time of publication.