Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Europa League qualifying match.
Partizan Belgrade are unlikely to reach their full potential away to AEK Larnaca, as they will be without their main striker Ibrahim Zubairu for several more weeks due to an ankle fracture.
AEK Larnaca
AEK Larnaca had a productive pre-season, recording solid results in friendlies against K.V.C. Westerlo (3:1), R.F.C. Seraing (3:3), and R.S.C. Anderlecht (2:2). Against the Belgian giants, AEK Larnaca managed to claw back from a 0:2 deficit in the closing stages. However, forward Enzo Cabrera, who netted 12 goals in last season’s Cypriot First Division, picked up an injury early in that match. AEK Larnaca's upcoming return to official competition is expected to come under pressure, with Partizan Belgrade likely to create more attacking opportunities.
Partizan Belgrade
In addition to the absence of Ibrahim Zubairu, Partizan Belgrade will also be without their new defender Lazar Milic on Thursday due to a leg injury. The Serbian team showed signs of struggle in their friendlies against PFC CSKA Moscow and FC Dynamo Moscow, losing both matches 1:3. Their preference for short passes in defensive areas has proven to be a liability. It’s also worth noting that this European campaign carries significant weight for Srdjan Blagojevic; last season, Partizan Belgrade failed to even reach the group stage of the Europa Conference League, being eliminated in the play-off final with a 0:2 aggregate loss to K.A.A. Gent.
AEK Larnaca vs Partizan Belgrade Prediction
AEK Larnaca and Partizan Belgrade last faced each other in Europa League qualification three years ago, with AEK Larnaca progressing 4:3 on aggregate. This time, both sides are expected to take a more conservative approach to avoid costly mistakes.
