Sofia fortress versus European cup experience: prediction for Levski vs AEK Athens
The first leg of the Champions League qualifying playoff round between Levski and AEK will take place on August 18, 2026. The Bulgarian side has already navigated three qualifying rounds, while the Greek champions are entering their European campaign at this very stage.
Levski: flawless home run in qualifying
Levski kicked off their official season back on July 7 and have already hit peak form. In ten matches, the team hasn’t suffered a single defeat, racking up eight wins and conceding just five goals. Ahead of the clash with AEK, Levski also enjoyed a full week of rest thanks to the rescheduling of their Bulgarian league fixture.
The Sofia club has been especially dominant on home turf. All three Champions League qualifying home matches ended in Levski’s favor with an aggregate score of 6-0, and throughout 2026 they've lost just once at home - to Ludogorets, 0-1.
AEK Athens: quality and experience on the visitors’ side
Under Marko Nikolić, AEK are enjoying a successful era: the team clinched the Greek championship and reached the quarterfinals of the Conference League last season. This summer, the Athenians played seven friendlies, winning five, and their only official match - the Greek Super Cup against OFI - ended in defeat only after a 2-2 draw and a penalty shootout.
The squad remains formidable. Luka Jović, who netted 21 goals last season, already found the net in the Super Cup, while newcomer Lovro Majer has made his debut and is expected to bring extra creativity in the midfield.
Match facts
- Levski are unbeaten in all ten official matches of the new season.
- The Bulgarians have won all three home ties in this season’s Champions League qualifiers with a combined 6-0 scoreline.
- Last season, AEK reached the Conference League quarterfinals and bring considerably more experience in the latter stages of European competitions.
Balancing home strength and visitor experience: prediction for Levski vs AEK Athens
Levski approach this clash in tremendous form and are nearly flawless at home. However, the absence of key players like Mustafa Sangare, Oliver Kamdem, and Akram Bouras significantly limits the hosts’ options.
AEK are just getting their season underway, but they have the edge in European pedigree and individual quality. In the first leg, caution from both sides is likely to prevail, making a level outcome the most logical prediction.
