APOEL Nicosia will host Petrocub Hincesti in the first leg of their Champions League second qualifying round on July 23, 2024, at the Neo GSP Stadium.
This encounter marks APOEL's return to the competition after a hiatus since their playoff loss in the 2019-20 season.
Petrocub, on the other hand, are competing in Europe’s elite tournament for the first time, hoping to extend their impressive run.
Team Form
APOEL Nicosia will host Petrocub Hincesti in the first leg of their Champions League second qualifying round on July 23, 2024, at the Neo GSP Stadium.
This encounter marks APOEL's return to the competition after a hiatus since their playoff loss in the 2019-20 season.
Petrocub, on the other hand, are competing in Europe’s elite tournament for the first time, hoping to extend their impressive run.
Team Form
APOEL Nicosia
APOEL have a rich history in the Champions League, notably reaching the quarter-finals in the 2011-12 season.
After a four-year title drought, they clinched the Cypriot championship last season, narrowly beating AEK Larnaca on head-to-head points.
This season, they aim to replicate past successes and progress beyond the qualifying rounds.
Petrocub Hincesti
Petrocub, the reigning Moldovan Super Liga champions, have shown remarkable form, going undefeated in their final 27 matches of last season and carrying that momentum into the current campaign.
They secured their spot in this round by overcoming Ordabasy with a 1-0 victory in the second leg of the previous round.
Team News
APOEL Nicosia
APOEL are set to field a strong lineup for their first competitive match in over two months.
With the departure of last season’s second top scorer Giorgi Kvilitaia to Aris Limassol, Marquinhos will be their primary goal threat. Expected lineup includes:
Possible Starting XI: Belic; Susic, Dvali, Petrovic, Quintilla; Donis, Sarfo, Tejera; Ndongala, Drazic, Marquinhos.
Petrocub Hincesti
Petrocub are likely to stick with the team that secured their advancement against Ordabasy.
Midfielder Teodor Lungu, who scored the decisive goal in the last round, is expected to play a key role.
Possible Starting XI: Smalenea; Bors, Mudrac, Douanla; Jardan, Lungu, Abagna, S Platica; Ambros, M Platica, Puscas.
Prediction
Petrocub's unbeaten streak and strong defensive record will pose a challenge for APOEL.
However, playing at home and with greater European experience, APOEL are favourites to win this first leg.
Our Prediction: APOEL 1-0 Petrocub Hincesti
Petrocub 
APÓEL 
