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Craiova vs Levski Sofia: Prediction, Betting Tips and Match Preview

Europe Champions League · Europe · 29 July 2026
Craiova logoCraiova
2:2
1st half: 1:2
29.07.2026 18:30
Levski Sofia logoLevski Sofia

Match events

9′
🟨Nikola Serafimov
13′
0:1Everton Bala
16′
0:2Aldair Neves
26′
🟨Aldair Neves
Stefan Bayram🟨
33′
45′
🟨Maicon
Nicusor Bancu1:2
45+2′
Adrian Rus2:2
48′
55′
🟨Akram Bouras
Adrian Rus🟨
88′

Match statistics: Craiova vs Levski Sofia

CraiovaLevski Sofia
55Ball possession, %45
9Shots7
3Shots on target5
9Corners4
14Fouls18
4Offsides2
2Yellow cards4
0Red cards0
129Attacks85
90Dangerous attacks42

💡 Match preview Craiova vs Levski Sofia

By Dele Lawal — Football expert specializing in European and Russian competitions

Levski Sofia carry a slender 1-0 lead into the second leg of their Champions League qualifier against Universitatea Craiova in Romania. The Bulgarian side’s narrow victory in the first match has left the Romanian outfit facing a difficult task. After that defeat in the capital, Universitatea fielded a reserve side in their domestic league fixture, resulting in a humiliating 5-1 loss to Dinamo Bucharest. The question now looms: was that sacrifice in vain?

Tactical Analysis

Universitatea Craiova: A Mountain of Problems

Universitatea left Sofia with a 0-1 defeat and a heap of questions about their finishing. The Romanian side dominated possession (57%) and fired off 13 shots, yet only one was on target. Felipe Coelho’s team controlled the rhythm but could not turn their dominance into goals. The goal conceded in the first half has jeopardized the entire two‑legged plan.

Following the European tie, Craiova faced Dinamo Bucharest in the league and it turned into a catastrophe. Coelho opted to rest almost his entire starting eleven, deploying a reserve lineup. The result was a crushing 5-1 loss. Croatian defender Badel received a straight red card and performed so poorly that the club decided to part ways with him. The experiment backfired, and the team’s morale has taken a serious hit. Now the Romanians must overturn the deficit at home, but a key concern is to avoid being caught on the counterattack. Levski showed in the first leg that they are capable of soaking up pressure and punishing mistakes.

Levski Sofia: In Good Form

Levski accomplished their objective in the first leg, securing a 1-0 home win. Dimitrov’s goal, assisted by Serginho, came from a well‑executed counterattack. The statistics were clearly against the Bulgarians: 43% possession, 9 shots compared to 13 for the Romanians. But Levski played pragmatically, converting their only clear chance. After that, Julio Velazquez’s side ceded the ball, shut up shop, and saw the game out.

After the European match, Levski played a league game against Lokomotiv Sofia and recorded a 2-1 away victory. Velazquez’s team fell behind first but turned the game around: Delev equalized, and Reinaldo scored the winner. The Brazilian continues to pick up points in official matches and heads into the return leg in excellent form. Unlike their opponents, the visitors did not rest players before the second leg. The coaching staff believes the players have hit a good run and do not want to disrupt the starters’ momentum. Levski travel to Romania with a comfortable advantage and a settled rhythm. The only downside is the injury to veteran Kirilov, who had 32 appearances and 7 goal contributions last season. His experience would have been useful against the Romanians, but squad depth means there is no need for alarm.

Predicted Lineups

Universitatea Craiova (5-2-1-2): Popescu – Mora, Romanczuk, Rus, Srescu, Bancu – Cicaldau, Mekabishvili – Ettim – Bayram, Elisor

Out: Al‑Hamlawi, Ischenko (both injured)

Head coach: Felipe Coelho

Levski Sofia (4-4-2): Vutsov – Neves, Dimitrov, Serafimov, Maicon – Burosh, Serginho, Trdin, Reinaldo – Bala, Oko‑Flex

Out: Perea, Kirilov, Mitkov, Mubarik, Kemdem, Vulićić (all injured)

Head coach: Julio Velazquez

Referee: Matteo Marcenaro (Italy)

This season, Marcenaro has officiated 12 matches in the Italian top flight. His average yellow‑card count per game is 4.08, and the foul rate is moderate at 25.2 per game. In European competitions, his statistics are similar: 3.5 yellow cards and 22.5 fouls per match in Champions League and Conference League qualifiers. The referee does not wave cards around, allows the game to flow, and keeps control without unnecessary whistles.

Prediction and Bet

Main Bet: Levski will not lose (odds 1.95)

The result of the first leg puts Universitatea in an awkward position: they must push forward, but Levski is at their most effective in exactly these situations. Velazquez has built a side that feels comfortable playing on the counter: in Sofia, the Bulgarians had less possession (43%) but put more shots on target and secured the victory. The second leg is likely to follow a similar pattern—the hosts will be forced to open up, and the visitors will have space to launch counterattacks. Furthermore, the negative psychological backdrop after two straight defeats undermines the Romanians’ confidence. In such conditions, the Bulgarians should at least avoid defeat. The pick: Levski to win or draw (1X) at 1.95.

Goal Bet: Both teams to score – Yes (odds 1.85)

The scenario for the second leg is largely dictated by the first‑leg result. Universitatea must play on the front foot and apply pressure. At home, with crowd support, chances at the visitors’ goal are likely. However, Levski under Velazquez have well‑drilled transition phases: they defend compactly and can spring quickly into attack through open spaces. In the first game, the Bulgarians converted one of their few chances – a tactic that could work again. The Romanian defence does not look flawless, so an exchange of goals seems the most logical outcome. The bet: Both teams to score – Yes at 1.85.

Dele Lawal
Dele Lawal
Football expert specializing in European and Russian competitions

Dele Lawal is a football expert who has spent many years analyzing tournaments such as the EFL Cup, FIFA World Cup, Champions League, and Russian Super Cup. His analysis emphasizes current form, lineups, key statistics like expected goals and shots on target, and the impact of coaching decisions and fixture schedules. He maintains a disciplined, data-oriented approach to prediction, avoiding emotional bias and focusing on underlying performance indicators.

All articles by this author →

The editorial prediction is provided for informational purposes only and should not be treated as a direct call to action. Every reader should do their own analysis before deciding on a bet.

Starting lineups: Craiova vs Levski Sofia

Craiova logoCraiova3-4-3
Popescu
SkresuRusStevanovic
BancuMekabishviliTsikvaldaouMora
BayramNsimbaMatei
Out of squad:Al-Hamlawi · InjuryIsenko · Injury
Levski Sofia logoLevski Sofia4-3-3
Vutslov
MaiconSerafimovDimitrovNeves
SerginhoMubarikBurosh
ReinaldoOko-FlexBala
Out of squad:Perea · InjuryKirilov · InjuryMitkov · InjuryMubarik · InjuryKemdem · InjuryVulikic · Injury

Match odds Craiova vs Levski Sofia

Result (1X2)

X3.5511.8524.33

Double chance

1X1.21X21.95121.3

Both teams to score

No1.85Yes1.83

Over

11.0321.4832.7546.150.511.51.272.523.53.464.57

Under

18.122.4631.3941.070.59.91.53.262.51.83.51.244.51.05

Handicap 1

01.3511.01-12.51-26.15-1.53.28-2.57.1

Handicap 2

03.0511.4221.06-18.81.51.252.51.04

Correct score

0:09.30:110.750:2231:06.251:16.051:213.51:3412:08.22:182:215.252:3483:0153:115.53:2304:0364:138

To qualify

12.2521.57

Predictions for Craiova vs Levski Sofia

SA Sani Abdullahi Result: 1odds 2.00 Lost

I predict Romania will win their home match. They have a strong track record playing on their own turf, and the home crowd gives them a clear edge. The opponent struggles away from home, and Romania’s disciplined defense will be key. This bet is based on consistent form and tactical advantage.

GW Gabriel Waziri Over 2.5 (1st half)odds 7.70 Won

I'm backing the first half total to go over 2.5 goals in tonight's Champions League qualifier between Universitatea Craiova and Levski. The first leg was tight, but both teams have shown they can score in their recent domestic matches—Craiova lost 1-5 to Dinamo Bucharest, and Levski won 2-1 away at Lokomotiv Sofia. With Craiova needing a win at home and Levski dangerous on the counter, I expect an open, attacking start with goals coming early.

IO Ikechukwu Oladipo Double chance: X2odds 1.83 Won

I'm backing Levski Sofia to avoid defeat in the second leg of the Champions League second qualifying round against Craiova. The Bulgarian side have shown solid defensive organization and enough quality on the road to keep this tie competitive. Craiova's home advantage isn't enough to outweigh Levski's tactical discipline and experience in European fixtures. Expect the visitors to grind out a result and keep their qualification hopes alive.

SI Segun Idris Handicap 2 (0)odds 2.79 Void

I'm confident that Levski Sofia will secure their advantage in this match. Their recent form and tactical discipline give them a clear edge over the opponent, and I expect them to control the tempo from start to finish. The team's defensive solidity and ability to capitalize on key moments should be enough to see them through.

II Ibrahim Igwe Under 1.5odds 2.96 Lost

I predict that this match will be decided by a single goal. Both teams are evenly matched defensively, and scoring opportunities will be scarce. The game will be tight, with neither side willing to take risks, leading to a low-scoring affair where one moment of brilliance or a defensive lapse makes all the difference.

TO Tunde Okonkwo To qualify: 1odds 2.44 Lost

I'm confident that Craiova will beat Levski at home and advance. They have the quality and home advantage to get the job done.

BA Babatunde Amadi Over 2odds 1.56 Won

I expect a high-scoring match. The first leg had only one goal, but both teams will sharpen their attacking efficiency in the return fixture, leading to a more open and productive game.

KO Kayode Obi Result: Xodds 3.45 Won

I predict a draw in this match. Both teams are evenly matched and have shown strong defensive discipline recently, making a stalemate the most likely outcome. The head-to-head record also favors low-scoring draws, and I'm confident this trend continues.

DI Daniel Idris Team 1 over 1odds 1.41 Won

I believe the home team will score at least twice. Even if they go down 0-1, they can easily fight back at home. This match will be a battle, and I expect plenty of goals. Best of luck to all!

SO Suleiman Ojo To qualify: 1odds 2.36 Lost

I believe Levski will struggle to hold their one-goal lead today, despite winning the first match. Defending a narrow advantage often backfires, and I expect the opponent to overcome it.

CA Collins Anyanwu Result: 1odds 1.93 Lost

I'm predicting a home win. Everton have been solid at Goodison Park, and their recent form shows a clear edge over this opponent. The visitors struggle away from home, and I expect the home side's intensity to be decisive. This is the strongest outcome based on the matchup, so I'm confident in this call.

CA Chukwuma Abiodun Correct score 1:1odds 5.90 Lost

I confidently predict a 2-2 draw. That's the exact scoreline I see happening.

KO Kayode Oni Under 1.5odds 3.00 Lost

I confidently bet on under total in this match, expecting at most one goal to be scored. The pattern from previous games pointed to another low-scoring affair, so I went with that reasoning.

JM Joseph Mohammed Over 1.5 (1st half)odds 2.94 Won

I confidently predict the opponent will score before halftime. They have the firepower to find the net early and delight the fans.

EM Emeka Musa Over 2.5odds 2.09 Pending

I expect an open and high-scoring match in this contest. Both teams have shown a tendency to push forward and create chances, which should lead to plenty of goals. The attacking quality on display and defensive vulnerabilities on both sides make a high-scoring outcome the most likely scenario.

KA Kabiru Amadi Under 2odds 2.43 Pending

I'm predicting that the match between Craiova and Levski Sofia will end with a clean sheet for both sides, meaning no goals scored. The reasoning is straightforward: both teams have shown strong defensive discipline in recent games, and their attacking play has been inconsistent, especially in high-stakes fixtures. The odds reflect a tight, low-scoring affair, and I'm confident this trend holds.

This bet is based on the pattern of defensive solidity and cautious tactics from both squads, not on external factors. I see no reason for a goal to break through, so a 0-0 draw is the likely outcome.

YO Yusuf Obi Result: 1odds 1.92 Pending

I’m predicting that Craiova will win this match. They’ve been solid at home and have the stronger squad on paper, especially with their recent form showing more attacking consistency. Levski Sofia, while defensively organized, often struggles to break down disciplined opponents on the road, and I don’t see them getting a result here. Craiova’s pressing and set-piece advantage should be the difference.

PS Peter Sowole To qualify: 2odds 1.53 Lost

I predict a high probability of this outcome. The key factors align strongly in its favor, making it the most likely scenario based on current evidence and trends.

BO Babatunde Oladipo Both teams to score — Yesodds 1.83 Pending

I fully expect this outcome—both teams are more than capable of delivering it.

AN Aliyu Nwosu To qualify: 1odds 2.34 Pending

I believe Craiova will advance past Levski Sofia. They come from a stronger championship and are the better side—that's all there is to it.

WA Wale Afolabi Both teams to score — Yesodds 1.83 Pending

I'm predicting that a ball exchange will result in a goal for the opposing team as these two teams meet. The flow of play suggests a quick transition will catch the defense off guard, leading to a score.

US Usman Salami Team 2 over 2odds 8.60 Pending

I'm betting on goals for Levski. The team's attacking form has been sharp recently, and their opponents tend to leave space at the back. I expect an open game with at least a couple of goals.

SO Segun Okoro Under 1 (1st half)odds 1.81 Pending

I predict that in the first half, the total goals will be one or fewer. The teams tend to start cautiously, and their recent form suggests a low-scoring opening period.

SM Sani Madu Result: 1odds 1.92 Lost

I'm backing Craiova to win at home. In the first leg, Levski won 1-0, but Craiova dominated the second half, created more chances, and had more shots on target and corners. Now back in Craiova, their home form is strong: they've kept a clean sheet in 60% of recent home matches, conceding just 0.7 goals per game on average. Levski, meanwhile, are cautious on the road—they've drawn 5 of their last 7 away games and rarely lose the first half. The xG data tells the story: Craiova had 1.4 vs Levski's 0.5 in the first leg, and their defense is more reliable (xGA 0.9 vs 1.5). Levski average only 0.8 away goals, while Craiova score 1.5 at home and have won 8 of their last 12 home matches. With Craiova needing a win and Levski content with a draw or one-goal loss, the hosts will attack from the start. The odds of 1.92 imply a 64% probability, giving me a 12% edge—a statistically sound bet.

CA Chukwuma Amadi Result: 2odds 4.00 Pending

I'm betting this will happen because the underlying conditions are clearly aligning. The key drivers I've identified—whether economic indicators, political trends, or social dynamics—are moving in a direction that strongly supports this outcome. I see no significant counterforces emerging that could derail this trajectory in the given timeframe.

My confidence is based on the consistency of the signals and the lack of credible alternatives. The evidence points to this being the most likely path, and I'm comfortable putting my prediction on the line.

IS Ikechukwu Shehu Both teams to score — Yesodds 1.83 Won

Levski confidently took the first match, coolly punishing their opponent for mistakes on the counterattack. The team is in excellent form, backed by a winning streak that includes a recent victory over Sofia's Lokomotiv. The players are steadily building peak condition for the return leg. Yes, losing the experienced Kirilov is a blow, but the solid depth of the bench allows the coaching staff to compensate for this absence without issue.

In the first match, Universitatea held territorial advantage and controlled possession, but they catastrophically failed to convert their scoring chances. The loss in Sofia, followed by a frustrating defeat to Dinamo Bucharest, has seriously hurt the team's morale. Now, the task for the return leg is far more difficult: the Romanians will have to push forward while constantly looking over their shoulders to guard against Levski's trademark quick attacks.

DN Daniel Nnaji Result: 1odds 1.92 Pending

I'm backing Craiova to avenge their narrow 0-1 away defeat. They'll be highly motivated to turn the result around, so I expect a strong response and a win this time.

FO Femi Olawale Result: 2odds 4.00 Pending

I have a fixed tennis match scheduled for July 29–30. The matches run from 1:00–5:00 on the 29th, and from 12:00–6:00 MSK on the 30th. I have confirmed the exact scores from a reliable player source, and I will share the specific numbers just before the start. I will send the signal 10 minutes before the match begins. You place a parlay at any bookmaker. After winning, you transfer 33% to me. There are only 3 spots to avoid drawing attention, and one is already taken. If it doesn’t hit—though that’s impossible—I will compensate your stake. Message me on Telegram (after the 33%). Hurry, the matches are starting soon.

JA John Ademola Corners: Over 8.5odds 1.72 Pending

I'm confident there will be a high number of corners in this match. Both teams play aggressively and consistently push forward, creating frequent set-piece opportunities. The betting line reflects this expectation, and I see no reason to bet against it.

AA Aliyu Anyanwu Corners: Team 2 over 3.5odds 2.12 Pending

I'm backing the away team to take at least 4 corners here. They're fully capable of getting forward and creating chances, so hitting that mark is well within their reach.

EO Emmanuel Obi Over 3odds 2.83 Pending

I’m confident both teams will score. They’re both in excellent form and have the attacking firepower to make this a high-scoring match.

BD Biodun Danjuma Double chance: X2odds 1.88 Pending

I'm confident the Bulgarians will dry out the game and limit Romania's chances. They won't allow much, and that defensive approach is the key to this prediction.

AS Aliyu Sani Result: 1odds 1.92 Pending

I believe the home team will secure a confident victory over Levski. The "Students" have been playing well in Champions League qualifying with two wins in three matches, and they are fully focused on European competition since the Romanian league has just started—any dropped points can be made up later. Universitatea's squad is stronger than their opponent's, and I expect them to use their experience to win and advance.

BE Babatunde Ekwueme Result: 1odds 1.88 Pending

It won't be easy, but I'm confident Craiova must take revenge at all costs.

UA Uche Anyanwu Both teams to score — Yesodds 1.83 Pending

I expect both teams to score in this match. Each side has enough attacking quality to find the net, and the defensive setups suggest goals at both ends.

WE Wale Ekwueme Corners: Over 9.5odds 2.31 Pending

I predict that Craiova will dominate Levski's penalty area and generate a high volume of chances in and around the box. Their attacking pressure will be relentless, leading to multiple dangerous moments.

AN Abubakar Nwosu Over 2.5odds 2.02 Pending

I'm confident the second game will be higher scoring. The first match was a tight, defensive battle, but both teams have now adjusted and will push for more goals. Expect a more open, attacking style as they seek to settle the series.

AT Anthony Tanko Corners: Team 1 over 5.5odds 2.11 Pending

I am confident that Bulgaria will dry up the match and lock themselves deep in their own penalty area. They know exactly how to shut down space and frustrate opponents by packing the box, making it nearly impossible to break them down.

UB Usman Balogun To qualify: 1odds 2.29 Pending

I’m confident that Craiova will turn this match around at home. They already showed an edge in the away leg, and with the support of their own fans, they have the momentum to secure a win.

DW Daniel Waziri Both teams to score — Yesodds 1.83 Pending

I’m confident this match will see at least three goals, or both teams will find the net. The action is likely to produce an open, high-scoring affair.

OO Oluwaseun Onyeka To qualify: 1odds 2.29 Pending

I predict that Craiova will beat Levski Sofia and advance to the next round. Levski's recent form has been inconsistent, and Craiova's home advantage and stronger squad depth give them the edge. They've shown resilience in key matches, and I expect them to control the game and secure the win.

SI Sani Idris Corners: Team 2 over 3.5odds 1.97 Pending

I am confident that Levski Sofia will press aggressively, and this will directly lead to goals. Their active pressing strategy is the key driver for scoring opportunities.

BO Biodun Oyelaran Under 3odds 1.38 Pending

I’m confident there won’t be many goals in this match. Both teams prioritize defensive organization over attacking flair, and their recent performances show a clear pattern of low-scoring affairs. The key players on each side are either out of form or missing entirely, which further limits the chances of a high-scoring game.

Expect a tight, tactical battle where clear-cut opportunities are rare. The odds heavily favor a low total, and I see no reason to bet against that trend. My read is that the match stays under 2.5 goals without much drama.

PD Peter Danjuma Over 1.5odds 1.27 Pending

I expect both opponents to score at least twice in this match. The attacking quality on display, combined with defensive vulnerabilities on both sides, makes a multi-goal game the most likely outcome. This bet is about predicting offensive efficiency—not just goals, but a minimum of two from each side. The form and historical matchups support this scenario. I'm confident both teams will find the net more than once.

AS Ayodele Sowole Under 3odds 1.38 Pending

I'm confident there won't be many goals in this match. Both teams are defensively solid and tend to prioritize structure over risk, which historically leads to low-scoring affairs. I see a tight, tactical game where scoring chances are limited, so backing a low total is the clear call.

MA Musa Amadi Team 1 under 2odds 1.32 Pending

I don't expect more than two goals in this match. It's far more likely to end 0-0 or 1-0 either way.

SO Sani Ogunleye Double chance: X2odds 1.91 Pending

I am confident the away team will avoid defeat. Playing on the road with a defensive mindset, they are well positioned to secure at least a draw.

BM Biodun Madu Over 3odds 2.75 Pending

I expect this meeting to be far more productive than the first one. My reasoning is based on the lessons learned last time and the clear need for concrete outcomes this round.

DO Daniel Ogundipe Result: 1odds 1.89 Pending

Universitatea Craiova is a very strong Romanian team, and with the support of their home fans, I'm confident they will win.

CD Chibuzo Danjuma Result: 1odds 1.89 Pending

I'm confident Craiova will not take the win at home. They're supposed to be strong there, but there's no way they're getting the result—zero chance.

CE Chibuzo Emenike To qualify: 1odds 2.29 Pending

I am confident that Craiova will win. They are extremely stable at home, which gives them a clear advantage and strong chances of victory.

IO Ifeanyi Ogunleye Under 2.5odds 1.79 Pending

I'm betting on Levski's classic pragmatism—the Bulgarians simply won't let Universitatea play, they'll dry out the game. The Romanians couldn't press Vitebsk, and against Levski, I doubt they have the punch. Forecast: Under 2.5 goals.

KO Kunle Obiora Under 2.5odds 1.79 Pending

I predict that this match will end with no goals scored. The evidence strongly supports a 0-0 result, and I'm confident in this outcome.

SB Samuel Bello Double chance: X2odds 1.91 Pending

This will be a tense local derby. I’m confident the away side can hold onto their home advantage and come away with the result.

KG Kabiru Garba Over 2.5odds 2.02 Pending

These opponents are evenly matched, so I'm confidently predicting exactly three goals in this match.

OA Olusegun Abubakar Team 1 over 1.5odds 2.02 Pending

I expect Khazaeva to score at least two goals in this match. But the visitors could also get on the scoresheet.

Match poster

Craiova vs Levski Sofia — odds

❓ Frequently asked questions

When and where is the Craiova vs Levski Sofia match?

The match takes place on July 29, 2026, at 18:30, in Romania (Craiova's home venue).

What is the key prediction for Craiova vs Levski Sofia?

The main bet is that Levski will not lose (1X) at odds of 1.95, as they are comfortable on the counter and Craiova must push forward.

Who is the favorite in this Champions League qualifier?

Levski Sofia is the favorite, holding a 1-0 lead from the first leg and being in good form, while Craiova is under pressure after two straight defeats.

Are there any important injuries or absences for either team?

For Craiova, Al-Hamlawi and Ischenko are injured. For Levski, Perea, Kirilov, Mitkov, Mubarik, Kemdem, and Vulićić are all out.

What is the form of both teams coming into this match?

Levski won their last league game 2-1 away and are in good rhythm, while Craiova lost 5-1 in the league after resting players, damaging morale.

Is there a bet on both teams scoring in this match?

Yes, the bet 'Both teams to score – Yes' is offered at odds of 1.85, given Craiova's need to attack and Levski's effective counterattacks.