Arda Kardzhali — Rakow Czestochowa : Match Preview and Prediction for August 28,2025

Arda Kardzhali’s Recent Form and Defensive Woes

The Bulgarian club approaches the crucial second leg in less than optimal condition. Following a narrow 0-1 defeat in Poland, Aleksandar Tunchev’s squad suffered another setback, losing 0-2 to Slavia Sofia in their domestic league. Both goals conceded within a five-minute span in the first half underscore significant defensive organizational issues. Despite dominating possession with 58%, Arda’s players managed only 3 shots on target against their opponent.

First Leg Vulnerabilities Exposed

The initial encounter against Rakow also highlighted the vulnerabilities of the Bulgarian side. The solitary goal conceded resulted from a glaring individual error by defender Felix Eboa Eboa. The statistics from that match speak volumes: Rakow significantly outscored Arda on expected goals (xG), with a commanding 1.81 versus a mere 0.31. This indicates that the Polish club generated chances equivalent to nearly two goals, while Arda struggled to create even one clear-cut opportunity. Even Arda’s coach, Aleksandar Tunchev, openly acknowledges Rakow as the favorites ahead of the return leg.

Rakow Czestochowa’s Dominant First Leg Performance

The Polish vice-champions travel to Bulgaria holding a slender advantage secured in the first fixture. The 1-0 victory, however, scarcely reflects the true dominance of Marek Papszun’s team. Rakow unleashed 14 shots at goal, with 7 finding the target, while their goalkeeper was seriously tested on only two occasions. After the match, Rakow’s coach lamented their low conversion rate, emphasizing that his players should have settled the tie much earlier, ideally in the first half.

Proven European Pedigree and Squad Depth

Rakow has already demonstrated their prowess in away European fixtures this season. In the preceding qualification round, despite a 0-1 home defeat to Maccabi Haifa, the Poles delivered a confident 2-0 victory away from home, showcasing their resilience and tactical discipline. The club’s sporting director, Artur Platek, explicitly asserts his team’s superiority in terms of class and squad depth, which serves as a substantial advantage in a two-legged tie. Rakow possesses all the necessary resources to dictate the pace and control the outcome of this decisive second leg.