Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Europa League qualifying match.
Despite boasting a stronger squad on paper, Partizan Belgrade fell to a 1:0 defeat in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League qualifying round of 16 clash against AEK Larnaca FC. The Cypriots now travel for the second leg with a real opportunity to advance, but the hosts will be hoping that home advantage and the urgency to overturn the deficit can work in their favour.
Partizan Belgrade
Partizan Belgrade’s tactical setup is likely to be hampered by the absence of Stefan Milic and Ibrahim Zubairu. The Ghanaian winger, valued at €2.5 million, remains the club’s most expensive player and a key component of their attacking structure. Nevertheless, the team managed to remain proactive in the away leg, registering three shots on target. Back on home soil, Milan Vukotic and Demba Seck are expected to be given minutes up front — the foreign forward pairing could prove decisive.
AEK Larnaca
AEK Larnaca had already shown signs of strong form in their pre-season preparations, including a 2:2 draw with Anderlecht. Home conditions clearly played into their hands; not every visiting team adapts well to the heat on the island. The final shot count (14-5) suggested that they might have deserved more from the first leg. In Belgrade, Larnaca are likely to adopt a deeper, more defensive shape — with a one-goal advantage, even a draw or narrow loss could be enough to see them through.
Partizan Belgrade vs AEK Larnaca Prediction
Three years ago in UEFA Europa League qualifying, Partizan Belgrade also lost 2:1 away to AEK Larnaca, but nearly pulled off a comeback at home with a 2:2 draw. Given the circumstances, the double chance market in favour of the hosts looks appealing, as they seem underrated.
