PFK Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova CS Prediction: Champions League Preview, Lineups and Score

PFK Levski Sofia host Universitatea Craiova CS in the first leg of their 2026/27 UEFA Champions League second qualifying round tie.

The match will be played at Georgi Asparuhov Stadium in Sofia on July 23, 2026, at 01:30 Singapore Time. UEFA commonly lists the visitors as U. Craiova or Universitatea Craiova.

Both teams reached this round with convincing 5-1 aggregate victories. Levski eliminated Borac Banja Luka, while Craiova defeated ML Vitebsk before opening their Romanian league campaign with a 4-0 victory over UTA Arad.

Levski’s strong home record gives the Bulgarian champions a narrow first-leg advantage, but Craiova’s recent defensive consistency and away form should keep the tie close.

Prediction: PFK Levski Sofia to win 1-0.

Users can participate through the PFK Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova CS prediction market on MEXC.

Summary

Levski Sofia enter as narrow favourites because of home advantage and their strong performance in the previous qualifying round.

Universitatea Craiova are also in excellent form. The Romanian champions have won all four of their opening competitive matches, scored nine goals and conceded only one.

The first leg is likely to be cautious because neither team will want to carry a major disadvantage into the return match in Romania.

Predicted winner: PFK Levski Sofia

Predicted score: Levski Sofia 1-0 Universitatea Craiova

Half-time prediction: 0-0

Competition: UEFA Champions League second qualifying round

Match format: First leg

Venue: Georgi Asparuhov Stadium, Sofia

Singapore start time: July 23, 2026, 01:30 SGT

Under 2.5 goals: Strong possibility

Both teams to score: Slight lean toward No

Confidence: Low to moderate

PFK Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova CS Match Details

The official UEFA match page confirms that the teams meet in the Champions League second qualifying round.

The local kickoff is scheduled for July 22 at 20:30 in Sofia, which converts to July 23 at 01:30 Singapore Time.

The return leg is scheduled for July 29 in Craiova. Levski therefore need to take advantage of playing the opener at Georgi Asparuhov Stadium.

Match: PFK Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova CS

Date: July 23, 2026, in Singapore

Time: 01:30 SGT

Venue: Georgi Asparuhov Stadium

Competition: 2026/27 UEFA Champions League

Round: Second qualifying round, first leg

MEXC market: Participate in Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova on MEXC

PFK Levski Sofia Team Preview

Levski reached the second qualifying round by defeating Borac Banja Luka 5-1 on aggregate.

The Bulgarian side drew the away leg 1-1 before producing an emphatic 4-0 home victory in Sofia. Armstrong Oko-Flex opened the scoring, Reinaldo scored twice and Juan Perea completed the result.

Levski converted the tie through a dominant second-half performance, demonstrating how dangerous Julio Velázquez’s team can become when their wide attackers receive space. (levski.bg)

Three days later, Levski opened their Bulgarian league season with a 2-1 home win over Dunav Ruse. Kristian Dimitrov and Akram Bouras scored the goals, extending the team’s positive start to the season.

Levski’s main advantage is their home form. They have already scored six competitive home goals this season and should receive strong support inside Georgi Asparuhov Stadium.

Levski Sofia’s Champions League Attack

UEFA’s official squad statistics show that Levski have several players capable of contributing goals.

Through the first qualifying round:

• Reinaldo scored two goals.
• Armstrong Oko-Flex scored twice.
• Juan Perea scored once.
• Levski scored five goals in total.

The distribution of goals makes Levski difficult to defend through one individual matchup. Universitatea Craiova must manage threats from both wide areas as well as the central-forward position.

Reinaldo

Reinaldo was Levski’s leading player in the 4-0 second-leg victory over Borac.

He scored twice and supplied an assist, showing both finishing quality and the ability to create for teammates.

Craiova cannot allow him to receive repeatedly near the penalty area. If the Romanian defense becomes too narrow, Reinaldo can move into the half-spaces and combine with Oko-Flex or Everton Bala.

Armstrong Oko-Flex

Armstrong Oko-Flex scored in both Champions League matches against Borac.

His direct running gives Levski an important transition threat. He can attack the full-back, move inside onto his stronger foot or make runs behind the defensive line.

Oko-Flex may become especially dangerous if Craiova’s wing-backs move too far forward.

Akram Bouras

Akram Bouras scored in Levski’s 2-1 domestic victory over Dunav and may retain an important midfield role.

His ability to arrive around the penalty area gives Levski an additional scoring option when the forwards attract the central defenders.

Bouras must also help Levski control Craiova’s counterattacks, particularly when Nicușor Bancu or Samuel Teles advance from midfield.

Levski Sofia Team News

Levski did not report a new injury from their domestic league opener, but Stipe Vulikic, Asen Mitkov, Radoslav Kirilov and Mustapha Sangaré were reported unavailable because of fitness issues.

Julio Velázquez rotated several players against Dunav, meaning many of the starters from the Borac victory should return.

Svetoslav Vutsov, Nikola Serafimov, Gašper Trdin, Serginho, Reinaldo, Oko-Flex and Everton Bala are among the players expected to feature.

The final lineup should still be checked on the official UEFA squad page before kickoff.

Universitatea Craiova CS Team Preview

Universitatea Craiova also reached this round with a 5-1 aggregate victory.

The Romanian side defeated ML Vitebsk 4-1 in the first leg before winning the return match 1-0. Club captain Nicușor Bancu scored the only goal of the second leg during stoppage time. (Universitatea Craiova official match report)

UEFA’s tournament statistics list five goals scored and only one conceded across Craiova’s first two Champions League matches.

Craiova then began their domestic league season by defeating UTA Arad 4-0.

Samuel Teles opened the scoring, Ștefan Baiaram and Simon Elisor added further goals, and a late own goal completed the victory. (Universitatea Craiova official report)

Those results suggest that Craiova arrive in Sofia with greater attacking confidence than a normal defensive underdog.

Universitatea Craiova’s Main Players

Ștefan Baiaram

Ștefan Baiaram scored during the 4-1 first-leg victory over Vitebsk and added another goal against UTA Arad.

The 23-year-old forward provides speed, movement and a threat from the left side.

He may become Craiova’s most dangerous counterattacking player if Levski push their right-back high up the pitch.

Nicușor Bancu

Captain Nicușor Bancu scored the goal that confirmed Craiova’s place in the second qualifying round.

Bancu provides:

• leadership;
• crossing quality;
• attacking width;
• set-piece delivery;
• experience in European matches.

Levski must track his forward movement without creating additional space for Baiaram.

Alexandru Cicâldău

Alexandru Cicâldău is one of Craiova’s most technically accomplished midfielders.

He can receive under pressure, carry the ball forward and create chances around the penalty area.

His matchup with Levski’s Trdin and Serginho could determine whether Craiova can sustain possession or are forced to rely primarily on counterattacks.

Samuel Teles

Samuel Teles scored the opening goal in Craiova’s 4-0 league victory over UTA Arad.

He can contribute from central midfield through late runs and shots from outside the penalty area.

Levski cannot focus only on Craiova’s forwards. Teles, Bancu and Cicâldău all offer secondary scoring threats.

Universitatea Craiova Team News

Goalkeeper Pavlo Isenko and Alexandru Iamandache are expected to remain unavailable while recovering from injuries.

Laurențiu Popescu played both opening Champions League matches, although Răzvan Sava started the league victory against UTA Arad.

Baiaram is expected to return to the starting attack after scoring as a substitute in the domestic opener. Simon Elisor is also pushing for a place after scoring his first goal for the club.

Expected PFK Levski Sofia Lineup

Levski are likely to use a 4-3-3 or fluid 4-2-3-1 formation.

Goalkeeper: Svetoslav Vutsov

Defenders: Oliver Kamdem, Kristian Dimitrov, Nikola Serafimov, Maicon

Midfielders: Serginho, Gašper Trdin, Akram Bouras

Forwards: Armstrong Oko-Flex, Reinaldo, Everton Bala

Juan Perea offers a more direct central-forward option from the bench.

This predicted lineup is based on Levski’s Champions League squad and recent selections rather than a confirmed starting XI.

Expected Universitatea Craiova Lineup

Craiova may begin with a three-center-back structure that becomes a 3-4-3 or 3-4-2-1.

Goalkeeper: Laurențiu Popescu

Defenders: Oleksandr Romanchuk, Nikola Stevanović, Adrian Rus

Wide players: Samuel Teles, Nicușor Bancu

Central midfielders: Alexandru Cicâldău, Anzor Mekvabishvili

Forwards: Monday Etim, Assad Al Hamlawi, Ștefan Baiaram

Simon Elisor and Heriberto Tavares provide alternative attacking options.

PFK Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova Head-to-Head

This is expected to be the first official competitive meeting between the clubs.

The lack of a direct head-to-head record means recent form, tactical structure and home advantage are more relevant than historical matchup statistics.

Both teams enter after 5-1 aggregate victories, making the tie more balanced than a typical Champions League qualifying match between seeded and unseeded opponents.

Tactical Preview

How Levski Sofia May Attack

Levski should control more possession at home.

The Bulgarian side are likely to:

• build through Trdin and Serginho;
• isolate Oko-Flex in wide areas;
• allow Reinaldo to move between the lines;
• use Everton Bala’s movement from the opposite flank;
• attack crosses through Perea if he enters;
• press immediately after losing possession.

Levski must avoid forcing low-percentage passes too early. Craiova have shown that they can defend patiently and punish mistakes in transition.

How Universitatea Craiova May Attack

Craiova may allow Levski to hold the ball before attacking the spaces behind the full-backs.

Their main routes include:

• Baiaram’s pace;
• Bancu’s forward runs;
• Cicâldău’s passing;
• direct service toward Al Hamlawi;
• Teles arriving from midfield;
• set pieces.

The Romanian side do not need to dominate possession to create meaningful chances.

Why the First Half Could Be Tight

The first leg gives both teams a reason to remain cautious.

Levski will want to win at home, but conceding an early goal would give Craiova control of the tie.

The visitors may consider a draw an acceptable result before the return match in Romania.

A 0-0 half-time score is therefore the primary prediction.

Key Matchups

Armstrong Oko-Flex vs Nicușor Bancu

Oko-Flex will try to use pace and direct dribbling against Craiova’s left side.

Bancu offers attacking quality but must choose his forward runs carefully to avoid leaving space behind.

Reinaldo vs Craiova’s Center-Backs

Reinaldo enters after scoring twice against Borac.

Romanchuk, Stevanović and Rus must prevent him from receiving comfortably inside the penalty area.

Ștefan Baiaram vs Oliver Kamdem

Baiaram may be Craiova’s fastest attacking outlet.

Kamdem will need defensive support whenever Levski lose possession with several players ahead of the ball.

Cicâldău vs Trdin

This midfield contest may determine which side controls the central areas.

Cicâldău wants to move forward and create, while Trdin must protect Levski’s defenders and recycle possession.

How PFK Levski Sofia Can Win

Levski’s path to victory includes:

1. Using home pressure without becoming impatient.
2. Creating one-on-one situations for Oko-Flex.
3. Finding Reinaldo between Craiova’s midfield and defense.
4. Preventing Bancu and Baiaram from combining in transition.
5. Winning second balls around the penalty area.
6. Using the crowd to build pressure during the second half.
7. Keeping a clean sheet before the away leg.

How Universitatea Craiova Can Win

Craiova need to:

1. Remain compact during the opening 30 minutes.
2. Prevent Reinaldo from receiving centrally.
3. Attack the space behind Levski’s full-backs.
4. Use Baiaram’s pace during transitions.
5. Create set-piece opportunities for the center-backs.
6. Avoid unnecessary defensive fouls.
7. Maintain the disciplined away form shown in recent matches.

PFK Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova CS Prediction

Both teams enter with excellent results, strong defensive records and multiple attacking options.

Craiova may have produced the more impressive overall start, but Levski’s home form and 4-0 victory over Borac demonstrate how quickly they can take control in Sofia.

The match is unlikely to be as open as either team’s previous domestic victory.

Levski are selected to score once during the second half and protect the advantage.

Predicted winner: PFK Levski Sofia

Predicted score: Levski Sofia 1-0 Universitatea Craiova

Half-time score prediction: 0-0

Estimated probabilities:

• Levski Sofia win: 47%
• Draw: 31%
• Universitatea Craiova win: 22%

Confidence: Low to moderate

The main alternative result is a 1-1 draw.

How to Participate on MEXC

1. Open the PFK Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova CS prediction market.
2. Read the complete event question.
3. Confirm the closing time in your region.
4. Check the official starting lineups.
5. Review late injury and suspension news.
6. Confirm that the market refers to the first leg.
7. Review the available outcome prices.
8. Select the outcome matching your analysis.
9. Enter the amount.
10. Check the settlement conditions before confirming.

The exact event wording controls settlement. Users should review how postponements, abandoned matches, venue changes, extra time and disciplinary rulings would be handled.

Recommended Reading

• PFK Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova CS prediction market on MEXC
• Official UEFA Levski Sofia vs U. Craiova match page
• Official UEFA squad lists
• Official PFK Levski Sofia website
• Levski Sofia 4-0 Borac official match report
• Official Universitatea Craiova website
• Universitatea Craiova 1-0 ML Vitebsk report
• Universitatea Craiova 4-0 UTA Arad report
• Nicușor Bancu official profile

Frequently Asked Questions

When Is PFK Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova CS?

The match begins on July 23, 2026, at 01:30 Singapore Time.

Where Is the Match Played?

The first leg is played at Georgi Asparuhov Stadium in Sofia, Bulgaria.

What Competition Is the Match In?

It is the first leg of the UEFA Champions League second qualifying round.

Who Is Predicted to Win?

PFK Levski Sofia are narrowly predicted to win.

What Is the Predicted Score?

Levski Sofia 1-0 Universitatea Craiova.

What Is the Half-Time Prediction?

The primary half-time prediction is 0-0.

How Did Levski Sofia Reach This Round?

Levski eliminated Borac Banja Luka 5-1 on aggregate, including a 4-0 home victory.

How Did Universitatea Craiova Reach This Round?

Craiova defeated ML Vitebsk 5-1 on aggregate.

Who Are Levski Sofia’s Key Players?

Reinaldo, Armstrong Oko-Flex, Akram Bouras and Svetoslav Vutsov are among the main players to watch.

Who Are Universitatea Craiova’s Key Players?

Ștefan Baiaram, Nicușor Bancu, Alexandru Cicâldău and Samuel Teles are important to the visitors.

Where Can I Participate?

Use the PFK Levski Sofia vs Universitatea Craiova CS prediction market on MEXC.

Risk Notice

Football predictions are analytical estimates and do not guarantee the result.

Starting lineups, injuries, tactical changes, red cards, VAR decisions and weather conditions may affect the match. Prediction-market positions may lose their full purchase value if the selected outcome is incorrect. Review the event and settlement rules before participating.