Hapoel Be'er Sheva
Víkingur ReykjavíkBy Dele Lawal — Football expert specializing in European and Russian competitions
The start of Champions League qualifying in the middle of domestic seasons creates a peculiar dynamic. While most European clubs are still shaking off the rust, Iceland’s Vikingur Reykjavik are operating at peak form and have made a habit of snatching victories in the dying moments – for the second consecutive round. This time, Hapoel Be’er Sheva were the victims, leaving the Israeli side with the daunting task of engineering a comeback without the boost of their own fans.
The Israeli champions returned to the Champions League after a six-year absence, and on paper they possess the tools to compete in the later qualifying rounds: a championship-winning core, a pragmatic coach, and two standout attackers who drive their creativity. Yet that very reliance on a select few exposes a critical weakness. In the 2025/26 season, Kings Kangwa has recorded 12 goals and 9 assists in 33 matches, while Lucas Ventura has managed the midfield balance in 33 appearances. But the moment either of them is sidelined, the team’s structure collapses. That was exactly what happened in the first leg against Vikingur (1-2). Kangwa’s equaliser brought the score level, but once he left the pitch, the defense crumbled and conceded just four minutes before full time.
Crucially, Hapoel cannot count on the home crowd to fuel a comeback. The second leg will be played on neutral ground in Hungary – a factor that actually favors the Icelanders, who secured their passage to the second qualifying round in that very country. It is also worth noting that a full month has passed since their first pre-season friendly, and the defensive unit remains alarmingly poor. In all five official matches this season, the “red-and-whites” have conceded at least two goals per game.
Vikingur entered the European campaign in excellent shape. They sit top of the Icelandic league, having lost just once in 16 matches – and that defeat came only after they had already switched focus to the Champions League. Operating at peak fitness gives the “Vikings” a distinct advantage on the continental stage. In the first qualifying round, they squeezed past Gyor 1-0 at home with a late winner, then repeated the trick against Hapoel (2-1). They produced twice as many shots as their opponents and deserved the victory. Notable is the fact that any player in this Vikingur side can step up as the leader. In the first two-legged tie, it was veteran Gylfi Sigurdsson; against the Israelis, it was Nikolai Hansen, who scored a brace and also netted the winner against Gyor.
Ahead of the return leg, Vikingur gained even more confidence by thrashing Keflavik 5-1 in the league, with the coaching staff again avoiding heavy rotation to keep the players sharp. The second leg against Hapoel will be played in Hungary – the same country where the “Vikings” already held Gyor 2-2 in the first round. Notably, even away from home, they did not change their approach: they matched the opponent in shots on target, used their attacking chances efficiently, and did not buckle without the support of a large away crowd.
Hapoel Be’er Sheva (4-3-3): Marciano – Mizrahi, Vitor, Diop, Davidzada – Kangwa, Nonoka, Yeoshua – Abu Rumi, Zlatanovic, Ganah
Out: Bitton (injury)
Head coach: Ran Kojok
Vikingur Reykjavik (4-3-3): Fridriksson – Gunnarsson, Ekroth, Vatnhamar, Gudjonsson – Sigurdsson, Ingimundarson, Hafsteinsson – Borgthorsson, Hansen, Traundarson
Out: Jonsson (injury)
Head coach: Solvi Ottesen
In the 2025/26 season, the Bosnian official has taken charge of 16 competitive matches and established himself as a very strict referee. On average, Bandic has recorded 29.4 fouls per game and issued 5.06 yellow cards. Moreover, he has sent off a player in every fourth match and pointed to the penalty spot in 6 out of 16 games.
Main prediction: Vikingur Reykjavik to avoid defeat @ 2.40
The nominal hosts are considered favorites, but that was also the case against Gyor in the first qualifying round. In reality, the visitors have a strong chance of avoiding defeat. First, Hapoel have chronic defensive problems: in official matches they have conceded three times in the Israeli Super Cup and twice in the Champions League, and in both cases the opponents created fewer expected goals than they actually scored. Second, the Israelis are overly dependent on their key players, especially midfielder Kings Kangwa, whereas Vikingur can rely on virtually any attacking player to step up as a leader. Third, Hapoel returned to the Champions League after a six-year hiatus, and this squad simply lacks European experience. Vikingur, meanwhile, have been trying to reach the group stage for several seasons and are more accustomed to competing against established European clubs. Given the Icelanders’ form and resilience, the bet on Vikingur not to lose at 2.40 is compelling.
Goal prediction: Expect a high-scoring match. Vikingur have already scored five goals in three Champions League games, and in the league they average more than three goals per away match. Hapoel have scored in all five of their new-season matches across all competitions but have also conceded at least two goals in every one. Therefore, both teams to score – yes at 1.76 is a solid option.
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.
Hapoel Be'er Sheva4-3-3
Víkingur Reykjavík4-3-3I don't mean to downplay the Israelis, but I'm confident the visitors will score at least once tonight—and possibly more. That's where my bet is going.
I’m backing both teams to score in this match. Hapoel Be’er Sheva must push forward after losing the first leg 2–1, and they’ll be aggressive at home. But their defense has been shaky—conceding an average of 2.8 goals over their last five games. Vikingur, meanwhile, are in red-hot form, unbeaten in 29 of their last 30 matches. They’ve shown they can score on the road, and with Hapoel needing to chase the game, I expect chances at both ends. This sets up perfectly for an open, high-tempo clash with goals from both sides.
I’m backing Vikingur Reykjavik to win with a -1.5 handicap. Despite playing away in Hungary, they avoid a long trip and the home advantage for Hapoel Be’er Sheva is largely neutralized. Hapoel is far from match fitness—they’ve only played friendlies and lost the Israeli Super Cup, while Vikingur just crushed Keflavik 5-1 in the league. That big win will boost their confidence, and Hapoel will have to push forward and chase goals, which plays right into Vikingur’s hands for an even bigger victory.
I expect this to be a high-scoring match where both teams find the net at least once. The attacking quality on display and recent form strongly support goals at both ends.
I am betting on Vikingur to advance. Overall, the team looks just as strong as the opposition, and I see no reason why they can't get the job done.
We’re backing the home side to win this one. They’ve been the stronger team overall, and with the advantage of playing on their own turf, I’m confident they’ll get the job done. The visitors have struggled in similar away fixtures, and I don’t see that changing here.
Simply put, the home team has the quality and momentum to secure the victory. Bet on them to take all three points.
I’m predicting Hapoel Be’er Sheva will get their revenge. They’re playing at home under the lights, and the crowd will be a serious factor. The last meeting stung, but they’ve tightened up defensively and found their attacking rhythm. Their opponents aren’t as strong away from home, and I see Hapoel’s hunger and home advantage pushing them to a convincing win. This is their moment to settle the score.
I predict both teams will score in this match. The attacking strength on each side is too potent to be kept quiet, and defensive vulnerabilities suggest goals are highly likely at both ends. This is a confident call based on the clear patterns of play and recent form.
Yes, Hapoel are without home support, but let’s not forget the level of the Icelandic league. Honestly, the only real concern here is the current form of the Israelis. I doubt they’ll advance, but I can easily see a goal-fest unfolding.
I don't see Hapoel as the favorite that the odds imply. Vikingur is in form, their physical condition is excellent, and they have plenty of desire and tactical discipline.
I expect an open and high-scoring match from the very first minutes in this pair. Both teams have shown a tendency to attack early, and I’m confident we’ll see goals in the first half.
I'm backing Hapoel Beer-Sheva to beat Vikingur Reykjavik on July 29 at 20:30. The odds of 1.71 offer solid value for a home side that is clearly stronger and more experienced in European competition. Beer-Sheva's squad depth and home advantage should be decisive against a Vikingur side that has limited continental pedigree. This is a confident play.
I'm betting on Vikingur to pull off the upset here. They've been flying under the radar, but their recent form and home advantage give them a real edge—this is a spot where the odds just don't reflect their true chances. Trust me, this is a value play that's too good to ignore.
I believe the hosts in Israel will secure a victory on their home ground. They have the strength and advantage to get the win.
I'm betting on corner kicks in this tense match. This bet will win.
I confidently predict a home win. The hosts have a clear edge in form and home advantage, making them the stronger side in this matchup.
Both teams to score – yes! Two attacking sides, and I expect another lively match in the second leg with plenty of chances. Good luck!
I'm confident that both teams will score in the Hapoel Be'er Sheva vs. Vikingur Reykjavik match. Hapoel are strong at home but have shown defensive vulnerabilities, while Vikingur have the attacking quality to find the net on the road. With both sides motivated and capable in front of goal, backing BTTS is the smart play here.
I predict Vikingur will take a high number of corner kicks in this match. Their attacking style consistently forces opponents to clear the ball behind, and I expect that trend to continue here.
After their away loss, they have no choice but to either get eliminated or overturn the deficit. I'm betting they'll fight hard to come back and advance.
I'm confident the home team will advance. Their strong home form and consistent performances give them a clear edge in this matchup—the opposition simply hasn't shown the quality to compete here.
The hosts have been dominant on their own ground, and the away side's recent struggles on the road reinforce my view. I see no reason to bet against the favorites in this spot.
I'm confident both teams will score in the second half. The match is set up for at least two goals after the break, with each side pushing forward and creating chances.
I'm confident that Vikingur Reykjavik will at least avoid defeat. They have the quality to secure a draw or even a win, so I'm backing them to not lose.
I predict Hapoel will dominate at home and take down their opponent. They have the advantage and I'm confident they'll get the job done.
I'm confident the guests will not lose this match. Their defensive organization and recent form on the road have been solid, making it tough for opponents to break them down. The home side has struggled against disciplined teams, and the visitors have shown they can grind out results even under pressure. That's why I'm backing the guests to avoid defeat.
I'm confident this match will see a high number of corner kicks. The attacking styles and defensive setups of both teams consistently produce plenty of set-piece opportunities.
I'm confident the most obvious bet here is the total number of goals in the match.
Hapoel will win, and both teams will score. I'm confident in this outcome.
I expect both teams to score in this match. Good luck.
I believe Viggengurt won’t lose this match. They’re in much better form right now and have the momentum to back it up.
I'm betting on Iceland to keep this match tight. They’ll focus entirely on defense, aiming to avoid conceding goals rather than pushing forward to score.
I’m confident Hapoel Be’er Sheva will cover the over 2.5 goals in their upcoming match. They’ve been consistently productive in attack, averaging well above this threshold in recent games, and their aggressive style creates plenty of scoring chances. Defensive lapses on their side also contribute to higher-scoring affairs, making this a strong bet.
Their opponents tend to struggle against fast-paced offenses, and with Hapoel’s home advantage driving their momentum, I expect at least three total goals. The trend is clear, and the numbers back it up.
I'm predicting over 2.5 goals in this match. Both teams have shown consistent attacking form recently, and their defensive records suggest goals are likely. The head-to-head history also supports this, with several high-scoring encounters. I'm confident this bet will hit.
I am confident that the away team will score and win the match today. They have the quality to dominate and secure the victory.
I believe Vikingur will not lose this match. In my view, the result will be at least a draw.
I predict this match will be an attacking affair. Both teams play open, offensive football, so expect plenty of goals.
I know return legs are unpredictable, but based on the first match, I'm confident in predicting the total goals. The first leg gave clear indicators, so I'm backing that.
I'm backing goals here. Hapoel Be'er Sheva are desperate to score but their defense is consistently vulnerable, so I expect both sides to find the net. The hosts' need for goals combined with their defensive frailty makes an open, high-scoring match the most likely outcome.
I am confident that Hapoel will win. They simply have to deliver here—anything less is unacceptable given the stakes.
I'm betting against the hosts here. They're clearly in a slump, and even playing at home won't be enough to secure a win against a tough opponent in this match.
I predict the second team will advance in this matchup.
I predict this match will be a heated, foul-filled affair. The players are going to provoke and escalate the intensity from the opening whistle, so expect a scrappy, high-tension game with plenty of cards and stoppages. That's my call—lock it in.
Hapoel clearly outclass their opponents in both technique and physical conditioning. I'm confident this edge will translate into a dominant home performance, so I'm backing them to cover the -1 handicap.
I predict both teams will score. Hungary is a tricky venue for Reykjavik, but they’ve already beaten a Hungarian side there and advanced. Hapoel plays true Israeli football: they score, relax, then concede and fight back. They’ve been both scoring and conceding in ten straight games. An exchange of goals is as certain as the sunrise.
I'm confident Hapoel Be'er Sheva will win—they're simply playing at a higher level right now. Their form and quality on the pitch make victory a realistic outcome in this matchup.
I expect a high-scoring match because both teams play attacking football. The game should produce plenty of goals.
I’ve seen the Israeli champion dismantle far tougher opponents before. This matchup is no different.
Both teams have been strong in attack, so I'm confident they'll each find the net in this match.
I expect them to come out aggressively, chasing the game from the first whistle. They have no choice but to push forward and take risks, so I'm betting they'll give it everything to turn the match around.
I expect a high-scoring match here. The visitors won't sit back and defend—they'll attack.
I'm betting on Vikingur to pull off the upset here. They've been flying under the radar, but their recent form and home advantage give them a real edge—this is a spot where the odds just don't reflect their true chances. Trust me, this is a value play that's too good to ignore.
I predict Hapoel will dominate at home and take down their opponent. They have the advantage and I'm confident they'll get the job done.
I am confident that Hapoel will win. They simply have to deliver here—anything less is unacceptable given the stakes.
I predict this match will be a heated, foul-filled affair. The players are going to provoke and escalate the intensity from the opening whistle, so expect a scrappy, high-tension game with plenty of cards and stoppages. That's my call—lock it in.
I'm confident Hapoel Be'er Sheva will win—they're simply playing at a higher level right now. Their form and quality on the pitch make victory a realistic outcome in this matchup.
I don't see Hapoel as the favorite that the odds imply. Vikingur is in form, their physical condition is excellent, and they have plenty of desire and tactical discipline.
I'm confident that Vikingur Reykjavik will at least avoid defeat. They have the quality to secure a draw or even a win, so I'm backing them to not lose.
I'm confident the guests will not lose this match. Their defensive organization and recent form on the road have been solid, making it tough for opponents to break them down. The home side has struggled against disciplined teams, and the visitors have shown they can grind out results even under pressure. That's why I'm backing the guests to avoid defeat.
I believe Viggengurt won’t lose this match. They’re in much better form right now and have the momentum to back it up.
I am confident that the away team will score and win the match today. They have the quality to dominate and secure the victory.
I believe Vikingur will not lose this match. In my view, the result will be at least a draw.
I'm betting against the hosts here. They're clearly in a slump, and even playing at home won't be enough to secure a win against a tough opponent in this match.
I don't mean to downplay the Israelis, but I'm confident the visitors will score at least once tonight—and possibly more. That's where my bet is going.
I’m backing both teams to score in this match. Hapoel Be’er Sheva must push forward after losing the first leg 2–1, and they’ll be aggressive at home. But their defense has been shaky—conceding an average of 2.8 goals over their last five games. Vikingur, meanwhile, are in red-hot form, unbeaten in 29 of their last 30 matches. They’ve shown they can score on the road, and with Hapoel needing to chase the game, I expect chances at both ends. This sets up perfectly for an open, high-tempo clash with goals from both sides.
I predict both teams will score in this match. The attacking strength on each side is too potent to be kept quiet, and defensive vulnerabilities suggest goals are highly likely at both ends. This is a confident call based on the clear patterns of play and recent form.
Yes, Hapoel are without home support, but let’s not forget the level of the Icelandic league. Honestly, the only real concern here is the current form of the Israelis. I doubt they’ll advance, but I can easily see a goal-fest unfolding.
I expect an open and high-scoring match from the very first minutes in this pair. Both teams have shown a tendency to attack early, and I’m confident we’ll see goals in the first half.
I'm betting on corner kicks in this tense match. This bet will win.
I'm confident both teams will score in the second half. The match is set up for at least two goals after the break, with each side pushing forward and creating chances.
I'm confident this match will see a high number of corner kicks. The attacking styles and defensive setups of both teams consistently produce plenty of set-piece opportunities.
I'm confident the most obvious bet here is the total number of goals in the match.
I’m confident Hapoel Be’er Sheva will cover the over 2.5 goals in their upcoming match. They’ve been consistently productive in attack, averaging well above this threshold in recent games, and their aggressive style creates plenty of scoring chances. Defensive lapses on their side also contribute to higher-scoring affairs, making this a strong bet.
Their opponents tend to struggle against fast-paced offenses, and with Hapoel’s home advantage driving their momentum, I expect at least three total goals. The trend is clear, and the numbers back it up.
I'm predicting over 2.5 goals in this match. Both teams have shown consistent attacking form recently, and their defensive records suggest goals are likely. The head-to-head history also supports this, with several high-scoring encounters. I'm confident this bet will hit.
I predict this match will be an attacking affair. Both teams play open, offensive football, so expect plenty of goals.
I know return legs are unpredictable, but based on the first match, I'm confident in predicting the total goals. The first leg gave clear indicators, so I'm backing that.
I'm backing goals here. Hapoel Be'er Sheva are desperate to score but their defense is consistently vulnerable, so I expect both sides to find the net. The hosts' need for goals combined with their defensive frailty makes an open, high-scoring match the most likely outcome.
I expect a high-scoring match because both teams play attacking football. The game should produce plenty of goals.
I expect them to come out aggressively, chasing the game from the first whistle. They have no choice but to push forward and take risks, so I'm betting they'll give it everything to turn the match around.
I expect a high-scoring match here. The visitors won't sit back and defend—they'll attack.
I'm betting on Iceland to keep this match tight. They’ll focus entirely on defense, aiming to avoid conceding goals rather than pushing forward to score.
I’m backing Vikingur Reykjavik to win with a -1.5 handicap. Despite playing away in Hungary, they avoid a long trip and the home advantage for Hapoel Be’er Sheva is largely neutralized. Hapoel is far from match fitness—they’ve only played friendlies and lost the Israeli Super Cup, while Vikingur just crushed Keflavik 5-1 in the league. That big win will boost their confidence, and Hapoel will have to push forward and chase goals, which plays right into Vikingur’s hands for an even bigger victory.
We’re backing the home side to win this one. They’ve been the stronger team overall, and with the advantage of playing on their own turf, I’m confident they’ll get the job done. The visitors have struggled in similar away fixtures, and I don’t see that changing here.
Simply put, the home team has the quality and momentum to secure the victory. Bet on them to take all three points.
After their away loss, they have no choice but to either get eliminated or overturn the deficit. I'm betting they'll fight hard to come back and advance.
Hapoel clearly outclass their opponents in both technique and physical conditioning. I'm confident this edge will translate into a dominant home performance, so I'm backing them to cover the -1 handicap.
I’ve seen the Israeli champion dismantle far tougher opponents before. This matchup is no different.
I expect this to be a high-scoring match where both teams find the net at least once. The attacking quality on display and recent form strongly support goals at both ends.
I'm backing Hapoel Beer-Sheva to beat Vikingur Reykjavik on July 29 at 20:30. The odds of 1.71 offer solid value for a home side that is clearly stronger and more experienced in European competition. Beer-Sheva's squad depth and home advantage should be decisive against a Vikingur side that has limited continental pedigree. This is a confident play.
Both teams to score – yes! Two attacking sides, and I expect another lively match in the second leg with plenty of chances. Good luck!
I'm confident that both teams will score in the Hapoel Be'er Sheva vs. Vikingur Reykjavik match. Hapoel are strong at home but have shown defensive vulnerabilities, while Vikingur have the attacking quality to find the net on the road. With both sides motivated and capable in front of goal, backing BTTS is the smart play here.
Hapoel will win, and both teams will score. I'm confident in this outcome.
I expect both teams to score in this match. Good luck.
I predict both teams will score. Hungary is a tricky venue for Reykjavik, but they’ve already beaten a Hungarian side there and advanced. Hapoel plays true Israeli football: they score, relax, then concede and fight back. They’ve been both scoring and conceding in ten straight games. An exchange of goals is as certain as the sunrise.
Both teams have been strong in attack, so I'm confident they'll each find the net in this match.
I confidently predict a home win. The hosts have a clear edge in form and home advantage, making them the stronger side in this matchup.
The match is scheduled for 29 July 2026 at 18:30. It will be played on neutral ground in Hungary.
Hapoel Be'er Sheva are considered the nominal hosts and favorites, but the prediction favors Víkingur Reykjavík to avoid defeat at odds of 2.40, citing Hapoel's defensive issues and Víkingur's strong form.
For Hapoel Be'er Sheva, midfielder Bitton is out due to injury. For Víkingur Reykjavík, Jonsson is missing.
Hapoel have conceded at least two goals in every official match this season, including a 2-1 loss in the first leg. Víkingur sit top of the Icelandic league with just one loss in 16 matches and recently thrashed Keflavik 5-1.
The top recommendation is Víkingur Reykjavík to avoid defeat at 2.40. Additionally, both teams to score at 1.76 is a solid option given both sides' recent scoring and defensive records.
For Hapoel, Kings Kangwa is crucial – he scored in the first leg and has 12 goals and 9 assists this season. For Víkingur, Nikolai Hansen scored a brace in the first leg and also netted the winner in the previous round.