Tuesday 30 July 2025, 20:30 BST · Arena Națională, Bucharest

Introduction

Romanian champions FCSB host North Macedonian side Shkëndija in the return leg of their UEFA Champions League second qualifying round tie. Shkëndija edge the tie 1-0 after a narrow away win in Skopje last week, while FCSB must chase an early goal in front of their passionate home crowd to avoid elimination from Europe’s elite competition. Progress would see FCSB enter the third qualifying round, while defeat sends them into Europa League qualifying.

Recent Form & Route

Shkëndija: The Macedonian champions began the tie brilliantly, claiming a 1-0 first-leg victory over FCSB in Skopje with a composed performance at home. They enter the second leg unbeaten in their last three matches across competitions—two league wins and the European win. However, they have not kept a clean sheet in five outings, suggesting defensive vulnerabilities moving forward.

FCSB: The Romanian side won the 2024-25 Liga I title and have struggled slightly in their Champions League campaign so far. In recent form they are winless in their last two, including the first-leg defeat. FCSB did record a draw with Hermannstadt domestically and beat Inter d’Escaldes in the first qualifying round. Leading goalscorer Daniel Bîrligea scored 17 last season, while Darius Olaru contributed 15 across competitions—both players will be key if FCSB are to overturn the deficit.

Probable XIs & Team News

FCSB (4-2-3-1): Tânase; Niță, Dawa, Sabău, Șut; Olaru, Popescu; Miculescu, Bîrligea, Tănase; Ștefănescu.
Unavailable: None reported in recent sources. Expect coach Elias Charalambous to field a strong lineup to chase the tie.

Shkëndija (4-2-3-1): Krstevski; H. Aliu, Haliti, Rexhepi, Pejovski; M. Aliu, Slimani; Ademi, Ristovski, Ruçi; Berisha.
Unavailable: None noted publicly; Skopje’s matchday squad appeared at full strength last week. Manager Ardian Nuhiu will likely keep his side narrow and disciplined to protect the aggregate lead.

Tactical Keys

Early intensity needed: FCSB must score early to unsettle Shkëndija’s compact structure. They pressed high in the first leg but failed to break through a well-organised defensive block. Expect midfield duo Olaru and Popescu to link up behind striker Bîrligea, using their creativity to penetrate the box.
Direct threat vs set play strength: Shkëndija rely on a mid-block and counter-press, with forwards Berisha and Ruçi posing a physical aerial threat from crosses—particularly from set pieces. FCSB must defend dead-ball situations robustly to avoid conceding again.
Tempo battle in midfield: If FCSB control possession early, they can stretch Shkëndija’s shape and tire their midfield. Conversely, a packed box from the away side may invite speculative shooting or crosses—opportunities for Bîrligea to exploit inside the area.
Psychological pressure: The 30,500-seat Arena Națională creates a pressure cooker atmosphere. FCSB thrive at home but must overcome emotional weight and avoid panic if the crowd grows anxious. Shkëndija, having claimed the lead, can afford to sit back and strike on the break.

Latest Odds & Probabilities

Market	Odds	Implied Probability
FCSB to Win	4/11 (1.36)	73%
Draw	9/2 (4.50)	22%
Shkëndija to Win	7/2 (4.50)	22%
Over 2.5 Goals	5/6 (1.83)	55%
Under 2.5 Goals	Evens (2.00)	50%
BTTS – Yes	10/11 (1.91)	52%
BTTS – No	7/4 (2.75)	36%

Odds agglomerated from UK bookies as of 30 July 2025.

Betting Tips

FCSB to Win & BTTS – Yes (4/5) – High odds value if FCSB press from the start and both sides score: FCSB under pressure but highly motivated, Shkëndija likely to counter.
Over 2.5 Goals (5/6) – With attacking impetus on both sides, expect at least three goals. The first leg saw clear chances for FCSB; home pressure may open the game further.
Daniel Bîrligea Anytime Scorer (6/4) – Last season’s top scorer for FCSB is their most likely outlet under pressure.
Match Draw (9/2) – If FCSB score first and Shkëndija cling on, a draw would eliminate FCSB but reflect a tight second leg. Value for cautious bettors.

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Viewing Guide

Live in UK & Romania: BT Sport Europe will broadcast in Romania, with live streaming globally via UEFA.tv and via local networks depending on territory.
International Stream: UEFA.tv provides coverage for regions without broadcast rights.
Weather: Bucharest is forecast to be mild and clear at kickoff (around 22–24 °C), suitable conditions for evening action.
Attendance: Expect ~18,000 fans at Arena Națională, with strong support from home stands and travelling Macedonian fans.

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