The Champions League qualifying round features an intriguing clash between Ordabasy and Petrocub Hincesti.
Both teams are making their debuts in this prestigious tournament, adding an extra layer of excitement to this encounter. Here's a detailed look at the teams, their form, news, and predictions for the match.
Match Preview
Ordabasy's Journey and Current Form
Ordabasy has made a remarkable rise in Kazakh football, clinching their first top-tier title last season by finishing five points clear of FC Astana.
This achievement has earned them a spot in the Champions League for the first time. They have carried their stellar form into the current season, leading the Kazakh Premier League after 12 games, with only one loss and a three-point advantage over Aktobe.
Under the guidance of Aleksandr Sednyov, Ordabasy comes into this match on a four-game winning streak. Their recent victory against Kaisar Kyzylorda, with goals from Jasur Yakhshiboev and Dembo Darboe, highlights their offensive prowess.
Yakhshiboev, who joined from Navbahor, has been particularly impressive, and his experience in continental competitions will be crucial.
Petrocub Hincesti's Form and Ambitions
Petrocub Hincesti, on the other hand, has also had a historic season, securing their first Moldovan league title by finishing ahead of Sheriff Tiraspol.
They ended their season strongly, winning seven and drawing three of their final ten matches, demonstrating solid defensive capabilities by conceding only five goals.
Managed by Andrei Martin, Petrocub aims to replicate the success of Sheriff Tiraspol in European competitions.
Despite their domestic success, they face a significant challenge in this Champions League qualifier, having only played one friendly match since the end of their season.
Team News
Ordabasy
Ordabasy will be without defensive midfielder Samat Zharynbetov due to injury.
The team relies heavily on their attacking duo, Yakhshiboev and Darboe, while Sergiy Malyi is expected to be a threat from set pieces.
Right-back Reginaldo, with his experience in Brazilian top-flight football, is also a key player.
Predicted Lineup: Shayzada; Reginaldo, Maliy, Platsun, Sehovic; Makarenko, Tagybaergen, Umarov, Yakhshiboev; Sadovskiy, Besedin
Petrocub Hincesti
Petrocub's attack is more distributed, with Mihail Platica, Vladimir Ambros, and Nicky Clescenco each scoring five goals in the last season.
The team will need these players to step up against a sharp Ordabasy side.
Predicted Lineup: Smalenea; Jardan, Platica, Axenti, Potirniche; Lungu, Cotogoi, Puscas, Demian, Clescenco; Basit
Prediction
Given Ordabasy's ongoing domestic season and their excellent form, they appear to have the upper hand.
Petrocub, though resilient, may find it challenging to overcome Ordabasy's momentum.
Ordabasy 
Petrocub 
