Ludogorets Razgrad — Shkendija : Match Preview and Prediction for August 28,2025

Ludogorets’ Current Form & Struggles

The Bulgarian football powerhouse is currently a shadow of its former self. The team is unmistakably navigating through a severe performance crisis. Their 1-2 defeat to Shkendija in the first leg was a clear continuation of a worrying string of poor results: this was preceded by a lacklustre goalless draw against Lokomotiv Sofia and a humiliating exit from the Champions League after a comprehensive 0-3 thrashing by Ferencváros in the second leg.

Squad Issues and Managerial Pressure

Coach Rui Mota has labelled the defeat in Skopje as a “fluke.” However, the evidence suggests otherwise. The team is battling significant personnel challenges: key players Kwadwo Duah, Agibu Camara, and Joel Andersson are all sidelined with injuries, severely impacting their offensive capabilities. Adding to their woes, just before the crucial second leg, the club opted to sell Munir Chouiar, who was a starter in the initial match, further depleting their squad.

A Systemic Problem: Lack of Dominance

Recent match statistics loudly echo their underlying problems. In 16 of their last 18 games, Ludogorets has failed to secure a victory by more than a single goal. The situation is equally concerning on their home turf: in 8 of their previous 9 home fixtures, they also couldn’t achieve a decisive win. This pattern points to more than mere bad luck; it reveals a systemic issue with converting chances and establishing a commanding lead.

Shkendija’s Resilience and First Leg Dominance

The Macedonian champions are proving to be a tough nut to crack, having already demonstrated their capabilities. Their 2-1 victory in the first leg was thoroughly deserved and well-earned. Goalkeeper Baboucar Gaye explicitly stated that his team maintained control throughout the encounter and largely stifled Ludogorets’ attacking efforts, while coach Jeton Bećiri is firm in his belief that their triumph was no stroke of luck.

Squad Morale and European Aspirations

Shkendija enters the return fixture in excellent spirits and form. Following their impressive win over the Bulgarians, the team secured a 0-0 draw in their national championship against Arsimi, strategically resting several key players. It’s crucial to acknowledge that the Macedonians have already guaranteed themselves European football in the autumn, at least securing a spot in the Conference League, thereby alleviating the immense pressure of potential total failure that currently burdens Ludogorets.

Strong Away Performance Record

The team from Tetovo possesses a proven ability to perform effectively on the road and does not succumb easily under pressure. Statistics robustly support this claim: in 15 of their last 17 away matches, Shkendija has avoided defeat by more than a single goal. They are adept at playing defensively, exploiting counter-attacking opportunities, and seizing their chances, a strategic approach they executed flawlessly in the first leg.