AEK Athens and Levski Sofia meet in the decisive second leg of the UEFA Champions League play-off round on Wednesday, 26 August at 22:00. The first encounter in Sofia ended in a goalless stalemate, leaving everything to play for in Athens. AEK, Greek champions last season, will seek to break through at home, while Levski arrive as surprise package after an impressive qualifying run through three previous rounds. The stakes are enormous—a place in the revamped Champions League group stage awaits the winner.
Form and Head-to-Head
AEK dominated their domestic opener with a 4-0 demolition of Iraklis, with striker Luka Jović in outstanding form. At the OPAP Arena, they have won eight of their last eleven matches. Levski, however, arrive unbeaten in 15 matches across all competitions and boast six consecutive clean sheets, including a 6-0 victory over Spartak Varna last weekend. The first leg showcased their defensive resilience—despite AEK's 12 shots, only one found the target, and Levski's compact shape held firm. Levski have also proven reliable on the road, remaining undefeated in nine of their last ten away matches.
Best Bet
Given the stakes, defensive discipline, and the first leg's cautious nature, backing Total Under 2.5 Goals offers value. Both teams understand the importance of not conceding; Levski's injury concerns will force them deeper, while AEK, despite home advantage, cannot afford recklessness. The odds available are: Melbet 1.47, 1xBet 1.52, 1Win 1.5, Mostbet 1.45, and 22Bet 1.527 for a home win—but the under 2.5 market reflects the likely low-scoring pattern.
Odds to Watch
The double chance X2 (Draw or Levski Win) presents an interesting alternative given Levski's unbeaten run and AEK's recent struggles in European competition. Home win odds are tight across the board: Mostbet 1.45, Melbet 1.47, 1Win 1.5, 1xBet 1.52, and 22Bet 1.527. The draw sits at Melbet 4.22, 1xBet 4.34, 1Win 3.95, Mostbet 4.1, and 22Bet 4.285—reflecting the genuine possibility of a stalemate sending the tie to extra time.
AEK Athens FC
Levski Sofia














