APOEL Nicosia vs Qarabag
This year’s UCL qualification became the first opportunity for APOEL Nicosia to try out the strength of Qarabag FK. The two camps met in the third round scheduled at the GSP Stadium.
The host got to this phase after passing the obstacle of FK Sutjeska with a score of 0-1 at the enemy headquarters, then won big with a score of 4-0 as host. They can also focus totally on this phase because the new Cyprus League campaign will be held at the end of the month.
Meanwhile, Qarabag FK started their journey from the first phase with a score of 0-0 as a guest of Partizani, then won 2-0 as host. Followed by Dundalk in the second round with a 1-1 draw at enemy headquarters, then won 3-0 as host.
If you observe this trend, it can be concluded that the team from Azerbaijan prefers to look safe by aiming at draws when appearing at enemy headquarters. Observing the results of the local league last season, they actually keep a very impressive record in away matches with 11 wins, 2 draws, and only lost 1 time. This achievement even led them to win the Premier League at the end of the competition.
Facing APOEL Nicosia at home will be a difficult test because this team also recorded only lost 2 times last season, while the remaining 6 wins and 3 draws. At the end of the season, they also came out as champions.
With a record that is equally flashy, the clash at GSP Stadium is predicted to be intense. The host will appear all-out to seek victory, especially if it is able to pressure the visitors to get out of the safe zone. It is likely that APOEL Nicosia will win the first clash against FK Qarabag.
Our Prediction: 1
Odds: 2.00