Match bet
Pafos made a poor start to the first leg against Salzburg. The Cypriots sat deep around their own goal and had only 0.03 xG at half-time, despite 37% possession. Red Bull kept the ball easily and dictated play, but did not turn it into a large winning margin. Röhl was fortunate with his substitutions: the Bulls' coach freshened things up with five changes midway through the second half, and Tabakovic made the most of them. The Bosnia and Herzegovina international and Salzburg newcomer scored the only goal in the 88th minute. Sema was sent off for Pafos after playing just over a half.
Under their new coach, Salzburg have abandoned the vertical 4-3-3 system built around pressing high up the pitch. Red Bull are now more versatile: a 4-2-3-1 with two holding midfielders provides control in midfield, while Vertessen is extremely reliable off the ball. The Belgian gives Röhl confidence in winning the ball back — the same plan will be used in the away second leg. With the Luckassen-Goldar centre-back partnership, Pafos are bound to concede dangerous counter-attacks. The Islanders must push forward, which will leave plenty of space, while their slow defenders will not be able to keep up with the opposition.
Ahead of the second leg, Pafos have lost two wingers at once — Quina through injury and Sema through suspension. Sá Pinto's staff have options on the bench, but it will affect the level of their attack. Salzburg are extremely versatile and will be closer to victory in Cyprus. The Bulls should progress to the next round.