The first leg of the Europa Conference League second qualifying round brings together Hapoel Tel Aviv and Ludogorets at a neutral venue, the DVTK Stadion. This encounter promises to be a tightly contested affair between two sides eager to make a strong impression in Europe. Both teams arrive with solid recent form, and while goals may be scarce, the intensity and tactical discipline on display should make for an intriguing matchup.

Hapoel Tel Aviv’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Hapoel Tel Aviv return to European competition after earning a fourth-place finish in the Israeli Premier League last season, marking their comeback to continental football following a successful domestic campaign. Their recent record shows consistency and resilience: in their last five matches, they have recorded 2 wins and 3 draws, remaining unbeaten. The team averages 1.6 goals scored and 1.2 conceded per game, reflecting a balanced approach between attack and defense.

At home, Hapoel Tel Aviv have been particularly strong. They have not lost at half time in 18 of their last 20 home matches, and over 0.5 goals have been scored in the second half in 19 of those games. Their most recent outing, a 2-2 draw against Beitar Jerusalem on July 18, showcased their attacking potential and fighting spirit. This form suggests that even though they are playing at a neutral venue, the Israeli side will look to impose their rhythm early and maintain control through possession and pressing.

Ludogorets’ Recent Form and Key Stats

Ludogorets approach this tie after a turbulent domestic season in which they finished third in the Bulgarian First Professional Football League. However, they managed to secure their place in the Europa Conference League by winning a tense playoff against Lokomotiv Plovdiv on penalties. The new season has started positively for the Bulgarian side, who recently defeated Lokomotiv Plovdiv 1-0 in their league opener.

In their last five matches, Ludogorets have achieved 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 defeat, averaging 2.2 goals scored and 1.4 conceded per game. Their defensive record has been particularly impressive, with clean sheets in each of their last three competitive matches. Moreover, under 3.5 goals have been scored in each of their last 13 games, underlining their disciplined and compact defensive structure. Despite this, their attack has occasionally struggled away from home, failing to score in their last two European away fixtures — a factor that could influence the dynamics of this first leg.

Hapoel Tel Aviv vs Ludogorets Tactical Overview

This matchup pits two teams with contrasting styles: Hapoel Tel Aviv tend to rely on energy, pressing, and quick transitions, while Ludogorets emphasize structure, defensive solidity, and efficiency in front of goal. Given the neutral venue, both sides may approach the game cautiously, prioritizing defensive organization over attacking risk.

Hapoel’s recent scoring consistency suggests they will look to test Ludogorets’ backline early, but the Bulgarian side’s ability to maintain clean sheets could frustrate their efforts. The Israeli team’s unbeaten run and strong second-half performances indicate that patience could be key, while Ludogorets’ experience in European competitions might give them a psychological edge in managing the tempo and exploiting counterattacks.

Historically, this is the first meeting between the two clubs in European competition, adding an element of unpredictability. Both teams have faced opponents from each other’s countries before, but this encounter will set a new precedent. Given the defensive records and the cautious nature of first-leg ties, a low-scoring draw or a narrow win for either side appears likely.

Statistical Summary

• Ranking in Europa Conference League: Hapoel Tel Aviv 1st, Ludogorets 2nd.


• Hapoel Tel Aviv last 5 matches: 2 wins, 3 draws, 0 defeats.


• Ludogorets last 5 matches: 3 wins, 1 draw, 1 defeat.


• Average goals: Hapoel Tel Aviv 1.6 scored / 1.2 conceded; Ludogorets 2.2 scored / 1.4 conceded.


• Under 3.5 goals in the last 13 matches of Ludogorets.


• Over 0.5 goals in the second half in 19 of the last 20 home matches of Hapoel Tel Aviv.

Hapoel Tel Aviv vs Ludogorets Prediction

All indicators point toward a balanced and tactical encounter. Ludogorets’ defensive resilience, combined with Hapoel Tel Aviv’s unbeaten streak, suggests that clear chances may be limited. The Bulgarian side’s recent clean sheets and the Israeli team’s tendency to stay competitive until the final whistle reinforce the likelihood of a tight scoreline.

Given the statistical trends and recent performances, the most probable outcome appears to be Both Teams To Score – No. This aligns with the defensive form of Ludogorets and the cautious approach expected in the first leg of a European qualifier.

Hapoel Tel Aviv vs Ludogorets prediction by BetMines:
Both Teams To Score – No with 47% probability.