Prediction Ludogorets vs Skendija 79 2025/2026 – Betting Tips for the Europa League on 28/08/2025

Match preview: Razgrad set for a high-stakes return fixture

The Huvepharma Arena in Razgrad will be the stage on August 28 when Ludogorets host Skendija 79 in the Europa League play-offs, and the atmosphere promises to be electric despite a modest capacity of 10,422. The rematch carries a little extra spice: just one week earlier Skendija edged Ludogorets 2-1, a result that gives the visitors real belief they can cause another upset. Referee Urs Schnyder is appointed for the contest, and both teams will be keen to set the tone early in this tie.

Ludogorets arrive with a mixed but generally positive run of form over their last ten fixtures — five wins, three draws and two defeats — yet that recent defeat to Skendija will sting. Their summer string of results contained some high and low moments: a convincing 3-0 victory away at Slavia Sofia and frustrating draws against Ferencvárosi and Lokomotiv Sofia. At home, Ludogorets will lean on Razgrad’s familiarity and fan support to overturn the slim psychological edge Skendija currently hold.

Form and recent meetings: revenge on the agenda

Skendija 79’s form reads as competitive and at times dangerous: five wins, two draws and three losses in their last ten matches. They arrive off a goalless draw in domestic action, meaning momentum is not one-sided. Notably, Skendija have shown they can score away from home in the recent past and were the winners in the head-to-head on August 21, prevailing 2-1 after leading at halftime. That victory underlines their ability to manage games and strike effectively when chances appear.

The last meeting’s scoreline — 2-1 to Skendija — suggests goals are likely in this fixture and that Ludogorets are not immune to conceding at home when the visitors are well organised. Deroy Duarte was highlighted as Ludogorets’ best performer in that clash, a figure the hosts will hope to see replicate or improve upon as they seek a response.

Statistical snapshot and tactical implications

Looking at the match statistics available, both teams produced similar shot metrics in their recent clash with 14 total shots apiece and four on target each, indicating attacking intent from both sides. Corner and attack averages slightly favor Ludogorets in overall attacking volume, while Skendija have shown efficiency in converting opportunities at crucial moments. Odds strongly favour Ludogorets to win at home — bookmakers price the home win at 1.30 (about 76.9% implied probability) with a draw well back at 4.50 and an away win a long shot at 9.50.

Given venue advantage, Ludogorets’ overall stronger form across the broader sample and the market’s clear confidence in a Razgrad victory, the sensible stance is to back the home side to correct last week’s disappointment. At the same time, the recent 2-1 meeting and shot data suggest Skendija will likely register at least once.

Betting suggestion: 1X2 market — Back Ludogorets to win (Home win at 1.30).