Maccabi Tel Aviv faces CSKA Sofia in Europa League qualifier in Batumi

Maccabi Tel Aviv and CSKA Sofia will meet on 6 August 2026 for the first leg of the third‑round Europa League qualification tie. The match is scheduled for 16:00 UTC (19:00 EAT) at the Adjarabet Arena in Batumi, Georgia.

Maccabi qualified for this stage after a 6‑0 aggregate win over Sheriff Tiraspol, but the club is dealing with injuries to several key players, including Roi Revivo and Sagiv Jehezkel. CSKA Sofia reached the tie by beating Derry City (5‑3 on aggregate) and advancing past Qarabag on penalties, and they enter the match unbeaten in their recent fixtures.

CSKA coach Hristo Yanev said the team has a clear plan and will aim for a solid result despite playing away from home. Betting previews from several outlets suggest a low‑scoring draw could be likely, with odds favouring both teams to score and a total under 1.5 goals.

The winner of the two‑legged tie will advance to the playoff round, where they will face OFI Crete for a place in the Europa League group stage.