New goal-filled clash in Slovenia: prediction for Celje vs Egnatia
Egnatia
The second qualifying round fixture of the 2026/27 Champions League between Celje and Egnatia will take place on July 28 in Slovenia. After a thrilling 3-3 draw in Albania, the contest essentially resets, but now the Slovenian club enjoys the home advantage.
Celje: a week of preparation and a bet on attacking power
Celje came close to victory in the first leg but allowed their opponents to equalize late on. To ensure full preparation for the return match, the team’s next domestic league fixture was postponed, giving coach Vítor Campelos ample time to work on the mistakes.
The Slovenians are gradually returning to their trademark attacking style: they have netted ten goals in their last four matches. Armandas Kučys scored in Albania and is likely to start again, while on the right flank of defense, the more attack-minded Alpha Dionkou may replace Pijus Sirvis.
Egnatia: vibrant attack weakened by striker’s injury
Egnatia remain unbeaten this summer, scoring 13 goals in four matches including friendlies. In the previous round, the Albanian side thrashed Petrocub 6-1 at home, but the clash with Celje showed that attacking flair alone is not enough for success.
A major setback was the injury to Soumaila Bakayoko, who left the pitch during the opening third of the first half. Up front, Daniel Adjese or Jurgens Montenegro could step in, but options to strengthen the center of defense remain limited for Nevil Dede.
Match facts and head-to-head
- The first leg ended in a goal-rich 3-3 draw.
- Six of Celje’s last ten matches and seven of Egnatia’s last nine games have featured at least three goals.
- Egnatia are still searching for their first away win in the Champions League: two draws and one defeat in three games, with just one goal scored.
The hosts should finish the job: Celje vs Egnatia prediction
Both teams are attack-minded and have shown defensive frailties. Egnatia are capable of creating chances even away from home, but Bakayoko’s injury limits their attacking options, and a lack of depth in central defense is especially dangerous against high-scoring opposition.
Celje have enjoyed a full week to prepare and will surely look to seize the initiative at home from the outset. While another goal-fest on the scale of the first leg may not materialize, the Slovenians look the more balanced side and should be able to capitalize on their home advantage.
