Prediction: Levski Sofia vs Borac Banja Luka

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Levski Sofia and Borac Banja Luka meet at Stadion Georgi Asparuhov on Tuesday evening for the decisive second leg of their Champions League first qualifying-round tie.Neither side was able to gain a significant advantage in the opening encounter, with the first leg ending in a 1–1 draw and leaving qualification firmly in the balance.Verdict: Total home goals over 1.5Best odds: 8/13Bookmaker: 888sportLevski SofiaLevski Sofia enter the second leg with cautious optimism after earning a draw away from home in the opening match. The Bulgarian champions secured their first league title since 2008-09 last season, earning the opportunity to return to Champions League qualification after a lengthy absence.Having failed to qualify for European competition for several years, the Blues are determined to make the most of their return to the continental stage. Their first-leg performance offered encouragement, as Julio Velazquez’s team created far more opportunities than their opponents and appeared the more dangerous side throughout much of the contest.Despite falling behind, Levski demonstrated resilience to fight back and claim a draw, with Armstrong Oko-Flex coming off the bench to score the equaliser. That contribution could earn the attacker a place in the starting lineup for the second leg.A return to home surroundings should provide an additional boost. Levski have been particularly difficult to beat in Sofia, losing only one of their last 16 home matches, and they will hope that support from the home crowd helps carry them through.Team NewsVelazquez may be tempted to make only minimal changes after a strong overall display in the first leg. Aside from the possible inclusion of Oko-Flex from the start, continuity is expected across the rest of the lineup.Borac Banja LukaBorac Banja Luka have become regular participants in European qualifying campaigns in recent seasons and enter this fixture believing they are capable of causing an upset away from home.The Bosnian champions enjoyed a memorable Conference League run in 2024-25 and are aiming to progress beyond the opening Champions League qualifying round for only the third time in their history.Although they were second best for large portions of the first leg, Borac still managed to leave with a draw and remain firmly in contention. Their disciplined approach and ability to take chances when they arise have often made them difficult opponents in knockout ties.Vinko Marinovic’s side can also take confidence from their recent away form, having avoided defeat in each of their last 15 away matches. However, their record in European away fixtures is considerably less impressive, with victories proving difficult to come by on the continental stage.Team NewsMarinovic is expected to maintain faith in the team that started the first leg. Goalscorer Luka Juricic should once again spearhead the attack, supported by a midfield unit likely to include Sandi Ogrinec, Matej Deket and Milos Jojic.With the tie finely balanced, Borac will look to remain organised and frustrate the hosts before attempting to capitalise on any opportunities that come their way.Key Factors to ConsiderLevski Sofia created significantly more chances than Borac Banja Luka in the first leg.The Bulgarian champions have lost only one of their last 16 home matches.Borac Banja Luka remain unbeaten in their last 15 away fixtures across all competitions.The Bosnian side’s European away record is considerably less convincing than their domestic away form.Armstrong Oko-Flex could provide added attacking impetus if he starts after scoring in the first leg.The tie remains completely open after the 1–1 draw, meaning patience and discipline could be crucial.ConclusionLevski Sofia will feel they missed an opportunity to take a first-leg advantage, but their overall performance should give them confidence heading into the return match. Backed by home support and a strong recent record in Sofia, they appear well placed to take control of proceedings.Borac Banja Luka have shown repeatedly that they are capable of staying competitive in European ties, yet their struggles away from home in UEFA competition remain a concern.With home advantage likely to prove decisive, Levski Sofia are backed to edge a closely fought contest and secure progression to the next round.Verdict: Total home goals over 1.5Best odds: 8/13Bookmaker: 888sportThe post Prediction: Levski Sofia vs Borac Banja Luka appeared first on SoccerNews.