Pafos Poised for Historic Champions League Breakthrough Against Red Star
UEFA Champions League - AEP Paphos VS Crvena Zvezda
Match Time:27-08-2025 03:00 Wednesday (GMT+8)
Football Livescore | Match Prediction & Tips
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Pafos FC is on the brink of reaching the Champions League group stage for the first time, holding a narrow lead after their first-leg win over Red Star Belgrade. The Cypriot side now looks to complete the job in the return leg and secure a historic qualification.
Red Star, despite the setback, remains in contention and will push to overturn the deficit. The final match promises a tense battle, with both teams chasing a spot among Europe’s elite.
Team Analysis:
Pafos FC shocked Red Star Belgrade with a quick opening goal and a composed penalty to secure a 2-1 away win in the first leg of their Champions League playoff. Despite Red Star pulling one back, the Cypriot side now holds a slim advantage heading into the decisive home fixture, where they aim to reach the group stage for the first time in their short history.
While Pafos remains unbeaten in 11 matches, Red Star saw their 15-game streak end and face the challenge of reversing the tie in Cyprus. Both teams had the weekend off to prepare, and with European pedigree on Red Star's side and recent momentum favoring Pafos, the second leg promises to be tightly contested.
Player Situation:
Pafos will regain Domingos Quina after suspension but are unlikely to make major changes, with Anderson Silva, Muamer Tankovic, and Joao Correia expected to lead the attack. They also have added depth with Mislav Orsic and Vlad Dragomir as offensive options.
Red Star, meanwhile, is bolstered by key returns from suspension and injury, including Rodrigao and Rade Krunic, while veteran attackers like Aleksandar Katai and new signing Marko Arnautovic add further strength. Cherif Ndiaye and Bruno Duarte are likely to lead the front line in this crucial second leg.
Result Prediction:
Pafos, a relatively young club, stands on the verge of a historic breakthrough by potentially reaching the Champions League group stage in their debut attempt. Their strong showing in Belgrade indicates they have the quality to overcome Red Star.
Despite the promising start, the tie remains unpredictable, and the final outcome could still hold surprises. Both teams face a challenging battle as they vie for a spot among Europe’s elite.
Predicted Result: Pafos FC 2-2 Red Star Belgrade.
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