Tournament: Champions League Qualification
Venue: Neo GSP Stadium (Nicosia)
Game Time: August 13, 2024, 13:00
In this crucial semi-final clash of the Champions League qualifiers, APOEL will host Slovan Bratislava on August 13, 2024. After a 2-0 defeat in the first leg in Slovakia, the Cypriots need a significant win to overturn the deficit and advance to the next round.
Key Statistics and Trends
APOEL:
- Drew 5 out of their last 8 matches.
- Typically strong at home, but their recent form has been inconsistent.
- Wins the first half in 35% of matches.
Slovan Bratislava:
- Won 7 out of their last 8 matches.
- Scored at least once in each of their previous games.
- Wins the first half in 40% of matches.
Team Analysis
APOEL: APOEL, after regaining their championship title in Cyprus, began their new season under David Gallego with mixed results. The team has brought in several new players, including El Arabi, Max Meyer, Xavi Quintilla, and Drazic, but they struggled against Petrocub in the previous round of qualifiers. The 2-0 loss in Slovakia has put them in a difficult position, requiring a significant turnaround at home. While APOEL is capable of a strong performance in Nicosia, their task is daunting, and their attack must be more effective than in recent outings.
Slovan Bratislava: Slovan Bratislava continues to dominate Slovakian football, securing their sixth consecutive title last season. The team is aiming to make a deep run in the Champions League and has been impressive in the qualifiers so far, dispatching Struga and Celje with relative ease. Their 2-0 victory in the first leg against APOEL has given them a significant advantage, and they will likely focus on maintaining their lead rather than chasing more goals. Slovan's disciplined defense and ability to capitalize on counter-attacks make them a formidable opponent.
Team News
APOEL:
- Out/Injured: Cipriano is doubtful for the match.
Slovan Bratislava:
- Out/Injured: Wimmer is not in top shape but may still be available.
Possible Starting Lineups
APOEL (probable lineup):
- Belec – Quintilla, Dvali, Petrovic, Susic – Sarfo, Tejera, Kostadinov, Ndongala, Marquinhos – Drazic
Slovan Bratislava (probable lineup):
- Takac – Sharani, Wimmer, Kashia, Blackman – Tolic, Bajric, Kucka – Weiss, Strelec, Mak
Previous Head-to-Head Matches: APOEL vs Slovan Bratislava
In their last meeting in the 2011 Champions League qualifiers, APOEL advanced after a 0-0 draw at home and a 2-0 win in Slovakia. However, this time, Slovan holds a 2-0 lead from the first leg.
Free Prediction for the Match: APOEL vs Slovan Bratislava
Given the circumstances, APOEL will likely push for goals but may struggle to break down Slovan's defense. Slovan Bratislava will aim to control the game and prevent APOEL from scoring multiple goals. A low-scoring match is expected, making "total: under 2.5" at odds of 1.78 a solid bet.
Prediction: Total under 2.5 goals (odds: 1.78).
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