Europa League

Universitatea Craiova

13 Aug 2026 18:00

KuPS

Prediction:

Universitatea Craiova to win 1.33

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Universitatea Craiova vs KuPS Predictions, Picks & Odds – 13/08/2026

Europa League · 3rd Qualifying Round

Our prediction

1X: Double Chance Universitatea Craiova or Draw

1.33 on Stake · Confidence Medium

Odds recorded on 20 Aug 2026 at 13:18 · Odds are subject to change

Universitatea Craiova vs KuPS Preview

Universitatea Craiova return to the Stadionul Ion Oblemenco with the aggregate score locked at 1-1 after a frustrating away leg in Finland. The Romanian side, fresh off a historic first Superliga title in 35 years, have endured a patchy domestic spell, with just one victory from their last five outings. A 1-0 home loss to Arges underlined their inconsistency, though Assad Al Hamlawi's return from injury offers a timely boost for this decisive European fixture.

KuPS travel to Craiova very much alive in this tie, thanks largely to Jaime Moreno Ciorciari's crucial second-half equaliser in the first leg. The Finnish side sit atop the Veikkausliiga and carry genuine competitive sharpness into this encounter. Bob Armah is expected to return to the starting eleven after a domestic suspension, strengthening their attacking options. European away trips have historically proved difficult for KuPS, but their current league form suggests they should not be underestimated.

Craiova's double chance selection at 1.33 reflects the hosts' continental pedigree at Oblemenco, where they have won two and drawn one of their last four European home fixtures. With the aggregate level and everything to play for, the Romanian side's home crowd becomes a genuine tactical asset. KuPS managed just one shot on target across the entire first leg, suggesting they lack cutting edge away from Finland.

Domestic form does raise a flag. Craiova have managed only one victory in their last five outings, including a disappointing home loss to Argeș. That inconsistency tempers outright confidence in a straight home win. Covering the draw at 4.20 provides necessary insurance, particularly given that KuPS sit top of the Veikkausliiga and carry genuine competitive sharpness into this tie.

The return of Assad Al Hamlawi strengthens Craiova's attacking options, while KuPS welcome back Bob Armah from suspension. Both sides gain reinforcements, yet the balance of evidence favours the hosts. Craiova's European home record and the structural advantage of playing the second leg in front of their own supporters make the 1X double chance the most sensible selection. Odds correct at time of publication.

Trends to Know about Universitatea Craiova vs KuPS

• Craiova won two of four European home ties
• KuPS struggle away in continental competition
• First leg limited KuPS to one shot on target

Universitatea Craiova line up in a compact 3-4-2-1, with Alexandru Cicâldău expected to pull the strings through midfield and provide the creative link between defence and attack. KuPS counter with a more conventional 4-2-3-1, a shape that offers defensive solidity while allowing their wide players room to stretch the Romanian back three.

Both lineups carry similar confidence levels from multiple credible sources, so the tactical picture is reasonably clear ahead of kickoff. Jaime Moreno Ciorciari leads the KuPS attack and will be the focal point the visitors look to feed, making Craiova's three-man defensive unit the key battleground in this Europa League qualifying tie.

How to Watch Universitatea Craiova vs KuPS Match?

What time is Universitatea Craiova vs KuPS?

Universitatea Craiova host KuPS on 13 August 2026 at 18:00 BST in the Europa League third qualifying round.

Where is Universitatea Craiova vs KuPS being played?

This match takes place at the Stadionul Ion Oblemenco in Craiova, Romania.

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

Fans can watch Universitatea Craiova vs KuPS live on Sony Sports Network and streaming platforms in India.