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Football Match Previews and Predictions - Page 538

Midtjylland vs Hibernian Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Europa League - Qualifiers, Second Round

Jul 21, 2025

Europa League FC Midtjylland - Hibernian

Midtjylland vs Hibernian Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Europa League - Qualifiers, Second Round

At the MCH Arena in Herning, Thursday, July 24, the first leg of the second qualifying round of the UEFA Europa League will take place between Danish side FC Midtjylland and Scottish club Hibernian. The hosts officially kicked off their new season last weekend, starting their Danish Superliga campaign with a 3-3 draw against Odense. Thomas Thomasberg’s men are aiming to qualify for the upcoming Europa League group stage after finishing second in last season’s domestic league, missing out on reclaiming the 2023/24 Superliga title. The Danish Wolves will want to make the most of home advantage and their greater European experience compared to Hibernian. Last season, Midtjylland played in the Europa League, advancing through the group stage before being knocked out in the knockout round playoffs by Real Sociedad. They also featured in the 2020/21 UEFA Champions League group stage, where they faced a tough group that included Ajax, Atalanta, and Liverpool. Hibernian, after finishing third in the 2024/25 Scottish Premiership, are currently in pre-season and will make their competitive debut in this new campaign by participating in these Europa League qualifiers. This is a huge opportunity for David Gray’s side, especially considering the club has not reached the final stages of any European competition in recent history. Their most recent appearance in Europa League qualifiers came in the 2018/19 season, when they reached the third qualifying round. After years away from the continental spotlight, the Edinburgh-based side will be eager to get a positive result in Denmark, even if it seems unlikely they’ll emulate the golden era of the mid-1950s, when they reached the European Cup semi-finals (1955/56).

Lugano vs CFR Cluj Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Europa League – Qualifiers, Second Round

Jul 21, 2025

Europa League Lugano - CFR Cluj

Lugano vs CFR Cluj Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Europa League – Qualifiers, Second Round

On Thursday, July 24, at the Stockhorn Arena in Thun, Lugano will host CFR Cluj in the first leg of the second qualifying round of the UEFA Europa League. For the Swiss side, managed by the young head coach Mattia Croci-Torti, this will be their first official match of the 2025/26 season. After finishing fourth in the Swiss Super League— their worst result in two years—Lugano aims to turn the page and kick off the new campaign with a statement win over CFR Cluj. The Swiss team has decent international experience, having reached the Europa League group stage twice (last time in 2019/20) and playing in the inaugural expanded edition of the Conference League last season, where they impressively made it to the Round of 16 before being knocked out by Celje. While home advantage typically plays a key role, Lugano’s case is peculiar, as they struggled at home last season and won’t even be playing in their usual stadium this time, which could discourage less dedicated supporters. Despite it being only July, CFR Cluj are already well into their season, having played the first two matchdays of the 2025/26 Romanian Superliga as well as the first qualifying round of the Europa League. Dan Petrescu’s men progressed to this round after eliminating Paks, thanks to a 3-0 home win following a 0-0 draw in Hungary. The Romanian side is also looking to improve on last season’s performance and once again challenge for their domestic league title, which they haven't won since 2021. Although one of the most successful Romanian clubs in recent years, CFR Cluj has yet to make a real mark on the European stage. After taking part in two editions of the Champions League (between 2010 and 2013), their most notable recent European appearances came in the 2021/22 and 2022/23 Conference League campaigns, where they were eliminated in the group stage and then in the knockout round play-offs against Lazio. Returning from Switzerland unbeaten would be a strong start to their new European journey and significantly increase their chances of reaching the group stage again.

Besiktas vs Shakhtar Donetsk Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Europa League - Qualifiers, Second Round

Jul 21, 2025

Europa League Besiktas - Shakhtar Donetsk

Besiktas vs Shakhtar Donetsk Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Europa League - Qualifiers, Second Round

In the packed calendar of the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League second qualifying round, one match stands out for football fans: Besiktas vs Shakhtar Donetsk. The Turkish side earned their spot in the Europa League qualifiers after finishing fourth in last season’s Super Lig, an improvement over their sixth-place finish the year before. Coached by former Manchester United star Ole Gunnar Solskjær, Besiktas start the season with clear ambitions to return to the top of Turkish football (their last title dates back to 2020/21). To support this goal, the club strengthened the squad with several key signings, including English striker Tammy Abraham (formerly of AC Milan and AS Roma) and attacking midfielder Orkun Kocku from Benfica. Getting through the second qualifying round would already be a significant first milestone—both to send a message to domestic rivals Galatasaray and Fenerbahce and to return to European competition, having last played in the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2023/24 (eliminated in the group stage). However, the first hurdle is far from easy. At the Tupras Stadium in Istanbul, Besiktas will host Shakhtar Donetsk, who had to begin their European journey in the first round after finishing third in last season’s Ukrainian Premier League. For Arda Turan—facing a personal derby of sorts, having come through the ranks at Galatasaray—the two-legged clash against Finnish side Ilves proved to be a formality. After a 6-0 first-leg victory, Shakhtar comfortably saw out a goalless draw in the return leg. Over recent years, Shakhtar have been regulars on the European stage. Their most recent experience was in last season’s new-format UEFA Champions League, where they finished a disappointing 27th in the single-league phase. Considering the quality and ambition of both clubs, it wouldn't be surprising if the winner of this tie eventually secured a place in the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League group stage.

The New Saints vs Differdange 03 Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Europa Conference League – Qualifiers, Second Round

Jul 21, 2025

Europa Conference League The New Saints - Differdange 03

The New Saints vs Differdange 03 Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Europa Conference League – Qualifiers, Second Round

Both teams were eliminated in the first qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League, but The New Saints and Differdange 03 still have a chance to compete in a European tournament this season: the Conference League qualifiers. On Wednesday, July 24, the two sides will meet at Park Hall in Oswestry for the first leg of the second qualifying round of the 2025/26 UEFA Europa Conference League. The hosts, after winning their domestic league, squandered their chance to progress in the Champions League qualifiers by losing to Macedonian side Shkëndija. After a 0-0 home draw, Craig Harrison’s men were defeated in extra time in the return leg, conceding the decisive 2-1 goal in the 116th minute through an unfortunate own goal. With their Champions League dreams behind them, The New Saints are now one of the top contenders to reach the final stage of the Conference League—a competition they already took part in last season. That recent European experience could be crucial in this two-legged tie against Luxembourg champions Differdange 03. Pedro Silva’s team has reached the second round of the Conference League qualifiers for the third consecutive time and is now hoping to finally break through, though it won’t be easy. Unlike the Welsh side, Differdange showed significant struggles in their UCL qualifier against Drita, falling 4-2 on aggregate. Despite their domestic dominance—two league titles and a national cup in the past two seasons—their European form remains shaky. Given the circumstances, The New Saints appear slightly better positioned to win the first leg and move on to the next round. However, it would be unwise to underestimate the determination of the Luxembourgish side.

Shelbourne vs Qarabag Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Champions League - Qualifiers, Second Round

Jul 21, 2025

Champions League Shelbourne - Qarabag

Shelbourne vs Qarabag Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Champions League - Qualifiers, Second Round

After overcoming the Linfield obstacle, Irish side Shelbourne continue their path toward Champions League qualification by facing Azerbaijani giants Qarabag on Wednesday, July 23 in Dublin. Shelbourne, who are also competing in the domestic league and FAI Cup, reached the second round after narrowly eliminating Northern Ireland’s Linfield. They secured a 1-0 win in the first leg at home thanks to a second-half goal by Odubeko, before drawing 1-1 in Belfast a week later with a first-half goal from Coote. Reaching the second qualifying round is already a small success for the Irish side, as they hadn’t achieved this since the 2005/06 season. Now, with nothing to lose, the Shels have every reason to dream big by trying to eliminate one of the most dangerous teams in the Champions League qualifiers: Qarabag. The Azerbaijan champions have come close to reaching the Champions League group stage in recent seasons, falling at the playoff round both last year and in the 2022/23 season. Currently in their pre-season phase after winning the Premyer Liqası for the twelfth time in their history, Qurbanov’s side can rely on solid European experience, having regularly competed in the UEFA Europa League group stages. In the 2024/25 edition—won by Tottenham—Qarabag finished last in the league-phase table, collecting only three points from one win and seven defeats. While their physical condition may not yet be optimal, Qarabag will aim to avoid defeat at Tolka Park and take full advantage of the return leg in Baku on July 30.

Brann vs Red Bull Salzburg Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Champions League – Qualifiers Second Round

Jul 21, 2025

Champions League Brann - Salzburg

Brann vs Red Bull Salzburg Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Champions League – Qualifiers Second Round

The road to the next UEFA Champions League continues with intensity: on Wednesday, July 24, Brann and Red Bull Salzburg will face off in the first leg of the second qualifying round. The Norwegian side earned direct access to this stage thanks to their second-place finish in last season’s Eliteserien, trailing just three points behind champions Bodo/Glimt. Unlike their Austrian opponents, Brann are in full-season form, having already played sixteen league matches. Currently sitting third in the standings, Alexandersson’s men are still in the title race for a trophy that has been missing from their cabinet since 2007. Despite a somewhat inconsistent run of results in recent weeks, the Norwegians will rely heavily on one of their key strengths for this first leg: home advantage. A tough side to beat at the Brann Stadion, Brann will be looking to build a solid lead ahead of the second leg, potentially complicating Salzburg’s qualification plans. The Austrian visitors arrive just a month after the conclusion of their 2024/25 campaign, which ended with elimination in the group stage of the FIFA Club World Cup. Coach Letsch has had limited time to prepare for this two-legged tie, but Salzburg's international experience over the past few years could prove crucial in managing both physical and mental demands. Despite key departures such as Dedić and Baidoo, Salzburg—runners-up in the Austrian Bundesliga—will aim to advance through this round and set up an exciting clash against Club Brugge, one of the main favorites to reach the group stage. Should Salzburg go the distance, fans hope for an improvement from last season, where the team finished third-from-bottom in the Champions League's single group format, earning just three points in eight matches.

Vejle vs Randers Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | Danish Superliga, Matchday 1

Jul 18, 2025

Superliga Vejle Boldklub - Randers FC

Vejle vs Randers Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | Danish Superliga, Matchday 1

The 2025/26 Danish Superliga officially kicks off on Sunday, July 20 at the Vejle Stadion, with a clash between two teams with vastly different ambitions: Vejle and Randers. The home side, after narrowly avoiding relegation last season with just a one-point cushion, hopes to start on a stronger note this year, aiming for a more comfortable campaign and possibly laying the groundwork for a European push in the coming seasons. The goal is to stay well clear of the bottom two spots that lead to relegation to the 1st Division, but Ivan Prelec’s task is far from easy. One key area the manager must urgently improve is the defense, which was among the weakest in the entire league last season. If the team can solidify its defensive structure without compromising offensive output, then they’ll have a realistic chance of achieving another vital survival. A home win in the opener against Randers could provide a major boost and significantly increase their odds of staying up again. Randers, on the other hand, approach the new season with very different motivations. They came heartbreakingly close to a UEFA Conference League qualifying spot but lost the playoff final to Silkeborg. Despite that disappointment, their fourth-place finish last season was a solid result and a strong foundation to build upon. However, improvements are still needed—especially in away form, where consistency was lacking. Matchday 1 offers Rasmus Bertelsen’s squad a golden opportunity to open with an away win and build confidence for the upcoming road fixtures of the season.

Fredericia vs Nordsjaelland Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | Danish Superliga, Matchday 1

Jul 18, 2025

Superliga Fredericia - Nordsjaelland

Fredericia vs Nordsjaelland Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | Danish Superliga, Matchday 1

On Sunday, July 20, at the Monjasa Park, the 2025/26 Danish Superliga kicks off with a clash between Fredericia and Nordsjaelland. The league format is straightforward: twelve teams face each other twice (home and away) for a total of 22 matches. At the end of the regular season, the table splits in two: the top six teams advance to the Championship Playoffs, while the bottom six enter the Relegation Group. The home side, recently promoted from the Danish 1st Division, enters the season with one clear goal—avoid relegation. To do so, they need to start strong. Their aim is to reach the final ten matches of the Relegation Group with a healthy cushion above the drop zone to avoid an immediate return to the second tier. Despite an impressive campaign last year—finishing second, just one point behind Odense and thirteen ahead of Horsens—Pedersen’s men will have to fight hard this season to stay up. A positive result in this opening fixture could be crucial. Nordsjaelland, on the other hand, ended last season in fifth place, narrowly missing out on a UEFA Conference League playoff spot, a competition they featured in during the 2023/24 season. This year, under the leadership of Essien, their minimum target is to secure a top-six finish and compete for European qualification through the Championship Playoffs. While they clearly have more experience at this level, this match is far from predictable. One of Nordsjaelland's major weaknesses last season was their away form, collecting just eleven points on the road. An upset to kick off the Danish Superliga cannot be ruled out.

Gornik Zabrze vs Lechia Gdansk Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | Ekstraklasa, Matchday 1

Jul 18, 2025

Ekstraklasa Górnik Zabrze - Lechia Gdańsk

Gornik Zabrze vs Lechia Gdansk Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | Ekstraklasa, Matchday 1

After two months of summer break, the Ekstraklasa returns with the first round of matches. Among the games scheduled for Sunday, July 20th, one that stands out is the clash at the Ernest Pohl Stadium between Gornik Zabrze and Lechia Gdansk. The hosts are looking to start strong and aim higher than in recent seasons, when they’ve consistently hovered around mid-table without ever really challenging for European spots. The last notable achievement dates back to the 2017/18 season, when they finished fourth and earned qualification to the 2018/19 Europa League—a result that feels insufficient for one of Poland’s most decorated clubs, even if most of their titles came in the 1960s and 1970s. In an attempt to return to European competitions, the club has brought in Slovakian coach Michal Gasparik and strengthened the squad. Up front, they can still rely on the veteran presence of Lucas Podolski, while also counting on promising talents like South Korean playmaker Young-jun Goh. Lechia Gdansk, on the other hand, ended last season achieving their primary goal: top-flight survival. With six points above the relegation zone, experienced coach John Carver earned a contract renewal and will again lead his team into what they hope will be another successful campaign. Although their opener pits them against a tough opponent in Gornik Zabrze, Lechia Gdansk—who have two Polish Cups and two Polish Super Cups in their trophy cabinet—will be aiming for a strong start to the 2025/26 Ekstraklasa season, knowing it won’t be easy to replicate last year’s feat.

Mirassol vs Santos Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | Brasileirão Betano, Round 15

Jul 17, 2025

Serie A Mirassol - Santos

Mirassol vs Santos Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | Brasileirão Betano, Round 15

The curtain comes down on Round 15 of the Brasileirão Betano with a clash at the Estádio José Maria de Campos Maia, where Mirassol hosts Santos. The home side, promoted to the top flight just last year, have had a strong start to the season. After twelve games, they are in the race for a spot in the continental competitions. Rafael Guanaes’ men currently sit 11th in the table, largely thanks to an unbeaten streak of five matches consisting of three wins and two draws. Unlike their rivals in the fight for continental qualification—a historic goal for the club—Mirassol has the advantage of focusing solely on the Brasileirão Betano, with no additional competitions to distract them. As a newly promoted side with no pressure and their only real goal being survival, Mirassol has nothing to lose. On the other hand, Santos, though also newly promoted, cannot afford to slip up any further. Despite being newcomers, the eight-time Brazilian champions began the season with the ambition of returning to the top of the table, as evidenced by the arrival of Neymar in January. Cleber Xavier’s men had a rocky start but have recently bounced back with two consecutive league wins. Now just a few points away from the continental qualification spots (Copa Sudamericana and Copa Libertadores), Santos are aiming to keep the momentum going. Their first major test is this away game at Mirassol. Despite the difference in prestige and the promising signs from Neymar and co., this will be anything but easy.

Vasco da Gama vs Gremio Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | Brasileirão Betano, Matchday 15

Jul 17, 2025

Serie A Vasco da Gama - Gremio

Vasco da Gama vs Gremio Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | Brasileirão Betano, Matchday 15

At the São Januário Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Vasco da Gama host Gremio for Matchday 15 of the Brasileirão Betano — a pivotal clash in the season for both teams. After 13 rounds, the home side sit just one point above the relegation zone. It’s not a good stretch for Fernando Diniz’s squad, who have lost three of their last four league matches. Additionally, they are coming off a heavy 4-0 defeat in the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana round of 32 against Ecuadorian side Independiente del Valle — a result that puts their hopes of advancing nearly out of reach in a tournament they won back in 1998. Given how difficult a comeback would be, all focus is now shifting toward the league and the Copa Betano round of 16, scheduled for July 31. Gremio have fared slightly better in the league, sitting in 12th place — the last spot granting qualification for continental competition, aligning with their preseason expectations. In their last two league outings, Mano Menezes’s side have slowed down, collecting only one point from matches against Corinthians and Cruzeiro. However, on July 9, they lifted the Recopa Gaúcha after beating EC São José in the final. Despite that trophy, and considering the limited quality of their opponent, Gremio also suffered a setback in the Copa Sudamericana, losing 2-0 away to Peruvian side Alianza Lima in the round of 32. The two teams, who haven’t faced off in over a year, cannot afford more missteps without falling deeper into the relegation battle — setting the stage for a match where the fear of losing might outweigh the desire to entertain.

Fortaleza vs Bahia Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | Brasileirão Betano, Matchday 15

Jul 17, 2025

Serie A Fortaleza - Bahia

Fortaleza vs Bahia Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | Brasileirão Betano, Matchday 15

Just ten days after their clash in the Copa do Nordeste quarter-finals, Fortaleza and Bahia will meet again on Saturday, July 19, at the Castelão Stadium for Matchday 15 of the Brasileirão Betano. The two teams come into this fixture with contrasting moods and very different season objectives. The home side currently sits second from bottom, three points adrift of safety — a zone occupied by São Paulo and Vasco. A shocking position considering Fortaleza finished fourth in the 2024 Brasileirão Betano, securing direct qualification for the Copa Libertadores. That very competition has been their only source of satisfaction in an otherwise disappointing season: Juan Pablo Vojvoda’s men advanced past the group stage and will face Argentina’s Vélez Sarsfield in the first knockout round in August. Things did not go as well in the Copa do Nordeste, where Fortaleza was eliminated on July 10 by their next league opponent: Bahia. Under manager Rogério Ceni, Bahia are enjoying a much more positive season and currently sit fourth, just three points behind leaders Flamengo. In addition to fighting for the national title, the “Esquadrão de Aço” (Steel Squad) remain active in the Copa Betano and Copa Sudamericana, where they’re locked in a tough two-legged playoff against Colombia’s América de Cali. Given their respective league positions — and the fact that Fortaleza hasn't won in two months — this might seem like a one-sided affair. But that would be a mistake. The home side will be desperate to end their drought and climb back up the standings, even though they’re facing one of Brazil’s most in-form teams right now.

CFR Cluj vs Paks Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Europa League - Qualifying, First Round

Jul 15, 2025

Europa League CFR Cluj - Paksi SE

CFR Cluj vs Paks Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Europa League - Qualifying, First Round

The first ninety minutes weren't enough to settle the UEFA Europa League qualifier between Paks and CFR Cluj. The Romanian and Hungarian sides played out a goalless draw, leaving all qualification talks for the second leg. That 0-0 result slightly favors CFR Cluj, who will now play the return leg at home at the Constantin Rădulescu Stadium, where they recently won their 2025/26 Superliga season opener. The hosts, led by Dan Petrescu (a symbolic figure in Romanian football), are coming off a season that fell short of expectations. They finished third in the league but claimed their fifth Romanian Cup title. However, the excitement of that cup win was dampened by a defeat in the Romanian Supercup final earlier this July, losing to league champions FCSB. The goal of reaching the second qualifying round is within reach for the “Railwaymen,” who, despite the 0-0 in the first leg, were the more dangerous side and created more chances. On the other hand, Paks are still in the midst of preseason, which was evident in the first leg where they were on the back foot for large parts of the match. Still, the Hungarian side did hit the post with a powerful shot, nearly scoring a crucial away goal. Having failed to capitalize on their home advantage, Bognár’s men now face a tough task: they must win on a challenging ground like CFR Cluj’s. Since another draw would only take the game into extra time, both teams will push harder in this second leg to continue their European journey, aiming to surpass last year’s result when both sides reached the third qualifying round.

Aktobe vs Legia Warsaw Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Europa League - Qualifiers, First Round

Jul 15, 2025

Europa League Aktobe - Legia Warszawa

Aktobe vs Legia Warsaw Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Europa League - Qualifiers, First Round

Despite the vast difference in history and prestige, the first leg between Legia Warsaw and Aktobe ended with a narrow 1-0 win for the Polish side. Against all odds, the up-and-coming Kazakh club still has a chance to progress in the UEFA Europa League qualifiers, but to do so, they must secure a victory by at least two goals. A win by a single goal would lead to extra time and possibly penalties. The hosts approach this match with the freedom of having nothing to lose but with the determination of a team chasing a historic milestone. Levchuk's men, currently engaged in their domestic league, struggled with the difference in squad value during the first leg but still managed to keep the tie alive by losing narrowly. Of course, coming back from a one-goal deficit against the Polish giants won't be easy—especially considering their inconsistent home form and lack of experience in knockout ties, having not featured in Europa League qualifiers for nearly a decade. Legia Warsaw, on the other hand, boasts extensive international experience, including a recent run to the UEFA Europa Conference League quarter-finals, where they were eliminated by Chelsea. Despite finishing third in last season's Ekstraklasa, they enter this match in Kazakhstan buoyed by Vahan Bichakhchyan’s stunning goal, which now gives them two out of three possible results to qualify for the next round. Iordanescu's side, superior in both quality and experience, must stay focused and avoid underestimating this away fixture if they want to remain serious contenders for a spot in the 2025/26 Europa League group stage.

Ilves vs Shakhtar Donetsk Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Europa League - Qualifiers, Round 1

Jul 15, 2025

Europa League Ilves - Shakhtar Donetsk

Ilves vs Shakhtar Donetsk Prediction: Match Preview and Analysis | UEFA Europa League - Qualifiers, Round 1

Among the ties that already seem decided after the first leg of the UEFA Europa League first qualifying round, one of the clearest outcomes is Ilves vs Shakhtar Donetsk. As expected, the Ukrainian side dominated the first match with a commanding 6-0 win, virtually securing their passage to the second round. Played in Slovenia—where Shakhtar is forced to host its home games due to non-football-related issues—the Ukrainians showcased their superior international pedigree and knockout-stage experience, having also participated in the latest edition of the Champions League. After closing the first half with a two-goal lead, thanks to goals from Alisson and Kaua Elias, Arda Turan’s squad ran riot in the second half, scoring again through Alisson, Kevin, Pedrinho, and Kewerton. The fact that all the goals came from Brazilian players is no coincidence but rather a testament to the offensive talent Shakhtar Donetsk possesses, with the club historically known for nurturing young Brazilian prospects. The emphatic scoreline in Ljubljana allows Shakhtar to approach the return leg with ease, using the match to refine tactical schemes and build chemistry ahead of the new season. For Ilves, it's a completely different story. After limiting the damage in the first half, they were ultimately overwhelmed by their opponents’ clear superiority and managed just one shot on target against Riznyk. With both feet practically out of the competition, Rantanen’s side will play more for pride than for any real qualification hopes—though that might not be enough to avoid another loss. Should things take a turn for the worse early on, it's likely that the Finnish team will hold back, saving their energy for upcoming domestic fixtures, where they are in a tight title race with Inter Turku.

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