Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League qualifying match.
Rijeka may have less European pedigree than Ludogorets Razgrad, but the hosts are still considered favourites for their home leg.
Rijeka
Year after year, Rijeka have shown steady progress, culminating in their triumph in the 2024/25 Croatian league — just the second league title in the club’s history. That success has earned them a third appearance in Champions League qualifying. Their most notable run came in the 2017/18 campaign when they reached the play-off round, eliminating Red Bull Salzburg along the way. Pre-season preparations have recently concluded with mixed results: three wins and two defeats against opponents of varying strength.
Ludogorets Razgrad
However, the upcoming clash with Ludogorets Razgrad represents a different level of challenge. They have already played three competitive fixtures. The team edged past FC Dynamo Minsk over two legs — winning 1:0 at home and drawing 2:2 away — and opened their domestic season with a dominant 5:0 win over PFC Septemvri Sofia. Still, comparisons between their domestic league and the more demanding environment of Champions League qualifying should be made cautiously.
Rijeka vs Ludogorets Razgrad Prediction
Last season, Ludogorets Razgrad were eliminated from the Champions League qualifiers by the experienced Qarabag, despite a 2:1 away win, as they suffered a heavy 7:2 defeat in the second leg. Meanwhile, Rijeka were eliminated from the Europa League qualifiers after drawing 1:1 at home and losing 0:2 away to IF Elfsborg. Given their current form and considerable experience in these qualifiers, the visitors look well-equipped to avoid defeat.
