Prediction for the Vikingur Reykjavik vs Borac match: the final step before the group stage - 20.08.2026
On August 20, Vikingur Reykjavik and Borac square off in the first leg of the UEFA Conference League playoff round. The Icelandic side will host the clash at Vikingsvollur, with the return fixture scheduled for August 27 in Banja Luka.
- See also: Prediction for the Marseille vs Atlético Madrid match: the final dress rehearsal before the start of the season - 14.08.2026
The stakes couldn't be higher, as the winner secures a coveted spot in the tournament's main stage.
Vikingur come into this clash riding the wave of an emotional European night. On August 13, they edged out Swiss side Thun 3-2, but it wasn't enough to progress—after a 0-3 loss in the first leg, the Icelanders fell short on aggregate. Still, the team showed real character, refusing to give up after a tough opening defeat. Now their European journey continues in the Conference League.
Borac’s story is even more dramatic. In the return leg against Belarusian side ML Vitebsk, the Bosnians lost 1-2 in extra time, conceding the decisive goal as late as the 125th minute. But in the penalty shootout, the Banja Luka side emerged victorious—4-2. The hero of the night was 18-year-old goalkeeper Mladen Jurkas, who saved two spot-kicks. Borac had won the first match 1-0.
This sets up a fascinating encounter: both teams arrive after grueling European battles, but morale in each camp should be high. Vikingur gained extra confidence with their win over Thun, while Borac are surely buzzing after their incredible penalty shootout triumph.
There's an interesting twist: these sides have already met in European competition—back in November 2024, Vikingur beat Borac 2-0 at home. Still, much has changed since then, so it would be unwise to read too much into that previous result.
I'm expecting a cautious start. There’s too much at stake, and with the return leg in Banja Luka, the hosts will be especially keen to secure at least a minimal advantage before heading to Bosnia. Borac, meanwhile, will likely aim to stay compact and deny the Icelanders any space to attack.
My prediction—a win for Vikingur.
