Maccabi Tel Aviv
FC Lugano
Maccabi Tel Aviv travel to Switzerland to face FC Lugano in the first leg of the UEFA Europa Conference League play-off round. The Swiss side enter this fixture in exceptional form, having won seven of their last eight official matches and scoring prolifically across domestic and European competition. Lugano have netted at least twice in five of their last six outings, with striker Kevin Behrens particularly influential in their European campaign. Maccabi, meanwhile, dropped into the Conference League after a dramatic tie against CSKA Sofia in the Europa League, where they showed resilience by winning 3-1 away despite a 0-3 home defeat. The Israeli outfit have demonstrated attacking prowess on the road, thrashing Sheriff 5-0 and beating CSKA 3-1 in their recent European qualifiers.
Form and Head-to-Head
Lugano have established themselves as genuine attacking threats this season, with an impressive seven wins from eight matches. At home, they are particularly dominant, recording four consecutive victories with a combined scoreline of 10-1. However, their defensive vulnerabilities have been exposed periodically, with concessions against Vaduz, Dukagjini, Grasshopper, and twice against NSI Runavik. Injury concerns affecting Daniel Dos Santos, Martim Marques, and Claudio Cassano add to their defensive fragility. Maccabi have shown they can create chances under pressure and score freely in away fixtures, but their defensive structure has proven susceptible to intense pressing and physical opponents, as evidenced by their 0-3 home loss to CSKA. This will be the teams' first official meeting.
Best Bet
Both teams to score represents the most intriguing option here. Lugano's attacking prowess is undeniable, yet their defensive issues remain a concern. Maccabi have already demonstrated their ability to exploit space and create chances in transition during their away European qualifiers. With Lugano playing aggressive, high-tempo football and Maccabi capable of quick counter-attacks, an open contest appears likely. The attacking potential of both sides suggests goals at both ends is a genuine possibility.
Odds to Watch
Lugano are favoured to take the first-leg advantage at home. At Mostbet, a Lugano victory is available at 2.25, with the draw priced at 3.5 and a Maccabi win at 2.95. The Swiss side's home record and current form make them legitimate contenders for the win, though Maccabi's away pedigree in European competition means backing the visitors carries some appeal. Over 2.5 goals also warrants consideration given both teams' attacking inclinations and defensive susceptibilities.
