Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League Qualifying match.
Pafos
The Cypriot champions are only in their second European campaign but already boast a run to the UEFA Conference League last 16. This season’s qualifying path has been built on discipline and defensive solidity — just three goals scored in three matches, but three clean sheets in their last five outings. Pafos rely heavily on a compact back line and pacey counter-attacks down the flanks. While they have no prior history against Dynamo Kyiv, the first leg showed they cannot be underestimated, especially on the break.
Dynamo Kyiv
Dynamo Kyiv swept aside Hamrun Spartans (6:0 on aggregate) in the previous round but struggled to convert chances against Pafos in the home leg. The Ukrainian giants last featured in the Champions League group stage in 2021/22 and have historically found Cypriot sides tricky opponents, with two defeats and a draw in their last three meetings. Sharpness in attack will be key — without clinical finishing from their front men, their chances diminish. Encouragingly, Dynamo Kyiv hit form at the weekend, dismantling Rukh Vynnyky (5:1) in the Ukrainian Premier League, and if Oleksandr Shovkovskyi deploys a similar high-tempo, attacking setup, Pafos could be in trouble.
Pafos vs Dynamo Kyiv Prediction
Pafos have the advantage of the first-leg result and home support, but Dynamo Kyiv’s class, European pedigree and squad depth tilt the balance in the Ukrainians’ favour. If they press aggressively and sustain their tempo, Dynamo Kyiv should be able to break through in the second half. Expect a 1-2 goal margin for the visitors and a place in the next round.
