Shkendija — Ludogorets 1945 : Match Preview and Prediction for August 21,2025

Shkendija vs Ludogorets 1945 Match Prediction and Betting Tips

According to bookmakers’ forecasts, the Bulgarian club is considered the favorite in the first leg of the Europa League play-off qualification round between Shkendija and Ludogorets on August 21, 2025. Average odds for the main outcomes are as follows: Shkendija win (1) — around 3.10, draw (X) — 3.30, Ludogorets win (2) — 2.25. The most rational bet under current conditions appears to be “Ludogorets will not lose” (X2) with odds around 1.35–1.40, as well as a bet on over 2 goals (odds 1.61). This choice is based on the visitors’ current form, their experience in European competitions, and the high scoring potential of both teams.

Current Form and Team Statistics

Ludogorets approaches the match as the long-standing dominant force in Bulgarian football: the club won its 14th consecutive championship title in the 2024/25 season and started the new season confidently, accumulating 13 points from 5 rounds and leading the national championship. In 11 official matches this new season, Ludogorets secured 6 wins, drew 4 times, and suffered only one defeat. In these encounters, the team scored 11 goals in 5 league matches – the best result among all participants in the Bulgarian league. In European competitions, Ludogorets overcame Dinamo Minsk and Croatian Rijeka, but lost to Ferencvaros in the third qualifying round of the Champions League with an aggregate score of 0:3. Shkendija finished last season with the best scoring record in the championship – 59 goals. On average, the team scores 1.8 goals per match, which confirms their offensive potential. However, in their recent Champions League matches, Shkendija suffered two consecutive defeats, with an average conceded goals per game of 0.91. This season, the team averages 1 goal per match, while Ludogorets concedes 0.8. This indicates that the Bulgarian club’s defense is quite reliable, and the Macedonian attack may face difficulties.

Tournament Standings and Motivation

For both teams, this match is a crucial stage in the battle for a spot in the Europa League group stage. Ludogorets, after being knocked out of the Champions League, aims to rehabilitate itself on the European stage, while Shkendija hopes to leverage their home advantage to build a lead before the second leg. It is important to note that the teams have not met before, which adds an element of unpredictability.

Tactical Analysis

Ludogorets traditionally employs an attacking style with an emphasis on quick wide runs and high pressing. In the national championship, the team demonstrates high goal-scoring efficiency, while in European competitions, they rely on organized defense and rapid transitions from defense to attack. In matches against opponents of comparable level, Ludogorets often controls possession and uses set pieces as a primary weapon. Shkendija, on the other hand, prefers to play as the dominant team in the national championship, but in matches against stronger opponents, they are forced to adapt, relying on counter-attacks and the individual skill of their attacking leaders. In European competitions, the team has not always coped well under pressure, as evidenced by two consecutive defeats in the Champions League.

Head-to-Head History

The teams have not met previously, which eliminates any psychological advantage for either side. This circumstance increases the importance of current form and tactical flexibility.

Potential Injuries and Squad Absences

As of the preparation of this prediction, there has been no information regarding serious injuries or disqualifications in the squads of either team. It is expected that the coaching staffs will be able to field optimal lineups.

Conclusion and Betting Recommendations

Considering Ludogorets’ current form, their experience in European competitions, and high goal-scoring efficiency in the national championship, betting on the Bulgarian club not to lose (X2) appears to be the most reliable option. For those seeking more adventurous choices, consider betting on over 2 goals, given the attacking potential of both teams and their recent match statistics.

• Main Bet: Ludogorets not to lose (X2)
• Alternative Bet: Total goals over 2

Both options are supported by statistical indicators and the current form of the participants, making them well-reasoned choices for betting on this match.