Istanbul will test the Danes' readiness for the big challenge: prediction for Beşiktaş vs Midtjylland
The first leg of the second qualifying round of the Europa League between Beşiktaş and Midtjylland will take place on July 23, 2026, at Beşiktaş Park in Istanbul. The Turkish side will play their first official match of the season after a sweeping squad overhaul, while the Danes arrive at the start of their European campaign in excellent form and with valuable international experience.
Beşiktaş: a revamped squad still finding its rhythm
Istanbul’s preparations have left a mixed impression. In five preseason friendlies, Beşiktaş managed wins only against Gyirmót and Mattersburg, lost to Spartak Trnava and Widzew, and drew 1-1 with OFK Malženice. The disappointing end to last season also highlighted that their accumulated problems won’t disappear overnight.
This summer, the team strengthened significantly: Alexander Nübel, Salih Özcan, Kassoum Ouattara, and Ilhan Fakili have all been registered for the Europa League. The midfield is expected to feature Orkun Kökçü and Wilfred Ndidi, but coach Italiano’s staff still need to find the right balance between ball control and defensive solidity. The absence of Leandro Trossard is an additional headache.
Midtjylland: potent attack and confidence on the road
The Danes had a far more convincing preseason, winning four out of five matches. Before traveling to Turkey, they thrashed Cardiff 6-0 and beat Odense 4-1, racking up a total of 17 goals in their last five outings.
Midtjylland retained Dario Osorio and welcomed back Franculino Djú from injury - he scored in both of the last two friendlies. Rasmus Kristensen and Friday Etim are set to make their official debuts, though there are some fitness concerns over captain Mads Bech Sørensen. The stats are in the visitors’ favor too: they have avoided defeat in 87 percent of their last 30 away games across all competitions.
Match facts and head-to-head
- At least one team failed to score in four of Beşiktaş’s last six official matches.
- In each of Midtjylland’s last five away games, at least one side failed to find the net.
- No more than two goals were scored in three of the last four official matches for both teams.
The Danes can handle the pressure: prediction for Beşiktaş vs Midtjylland
Beşiktaş will look to capitalize on their home advantage from the first whistle, but the quality of their teamwork remains questionable after major personnel changes. The Turkish side will need time for their new signings to adapt to the coach’s demands, and their recent European record means the hosts can’t be considered overwhelming favorites.
Midtjylland arrive in Istanbul in a more settled state, scoring freely and showing impressive discipline on the road. The Danes are capable of weathering the early pressure, seizing on the mistakes of a team still in transition, and securing a favorable result ahead of the return leg.
