Aiming for the third round. Prediction for the AEK Larnaca vs Beitar match
In the second qualifying round of the Conference League, AEK Larnaca will face Beitar. The match is scheduled for Thursday, July 23, with kick-off at 18:30 Central European Time. Here’s my pick for the winner of this clash.
- See also: UEFA Conference League qualification match: Shelbourne vs Nõmme Kalju, game preview for July 23
Head-to-head and statistical facts
- AEK failed to score in their previous two pre-season matches.
- Beitar conceded in only one of their last three outings.
- The teams met five years ago in a summer friendly, which ended goalless.
AEK enter the new European campaign as one of Cyprus’s top clubs. Last season, they finished among the league leaders and earned the right to compete in the Conference League qualifiers thanks to their final position in the table.
The team once again sets its sights on reaching the main stage of the competition—a stage where they’ve already gained valuable experience in recent years. This summer, the Cypriots focused on team chemistry during preparations, with the coaching staff actively experimenting in friendlies to find the optimal lineup. As usual, the team showcased disciplined football and a solid defense.
Home matches remain one of AEK's biggest assets, as the club consistently secures positive results in European tournaments on their own turf. Like their opponent, AEK begin this European campaign straight from the second qualifying round thanks to Cyprus’s high coefficient and their own club ranking.
Squad-wise, the hosts look well-balanced. They boast several seasoned players with ample international experience, so the pressure of European competition won’t be new to them. AEK’s main goal will be to establish a comfortable advantage ahead of the return leg in Israel.
Beitar secured their spot in Europe thanks to a strong domestic campaign last season. The Jerusalem club once again has the chance to represent Israel in the Conference League qualifiers and now hopes to make a deep run, despite facing a tough opponent as early as the second round.
The Israeli side had an intense pre-season, with the coaching staff placing special emphasis on attacking combinations—an area that was one of the team’s strengths last season.
In the first qualifying round, Beitar got the job done with confidence, advancing from the opening stage with an aggregate 7-3 victory, which means they come into the AEK clash in good form.
An additional plus for the visitors is that they’ve already found their rhythm. While AEK are just kicking off their official campaign, Beitar have already played a high-intensity Toto Cup fixture against Hapoel Tel Aviv, which could help them hit the ground running.
What’s the best bet?
On paper, AEK have a slight edge. The Cypriot side boasts more European experience, is well-organized, and will play the first leg with the backing of their home fans. Beitar have the form and attacking confidence to put up a fight, but their defense is prone to mistakes. The most likely outcome appears to be a home win with a 0 handicap.
