Maccabi Tel-Aviv hosts Pafos in the second leg of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League second qualifying round at the TSC Arena on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at 18:00 UTC[1][2][3]. The tie is finely balanced following a 1-1 draw in the first leg, leaving everything to play for as both teams aim to progress to the next round.
The first leg, played in Cyprus, saw Pafos take the lead with a goal by Mons Bassouamina in the 81st minute. However, Maccabi Tel-Aviv equalized dramatically in stoppage time thanks to Elad Madmon, securing a draw and keeping their hopes alive[1][4][5]. Pafos were disappointed to concede late but remain hopeful, as this is only their second appearance in European tournament preliminary rounds and a win would advance them to the third qualifying round where Hamrun Spartans or Dynamo Kyiv await[1].
Maccabi Tel-Aviv, with a strong European pedigree but inconsistent recent form (three wins in their last six matches), will look to improve and capitalize on their home advantage at the TSC Arena[1]. The head-to-head record between the two sides currently stands at one draw, emphasizing the tight competition[2].
The match venue has been listed as both TSC Arena and Gradski Stadion, Backa Topola, Serbia due to ongoing venue arrangements in European qualifiers[2][3]. Predicted lineups were made available before the fixture, but the confirmed teams will be announced just before kickoff[2]. Fans can follow live updates, scores, and key statistics through various live score services such as Sofascore and Fotmob[2][3].
References
- [1] Maccabi Tel-Aviv vs Pafos Prediction and Betting Tips | July 30th 2025 – Sportskeeda
- [2] Maccabi Tel Aviv vs Pafos FC – live score, predicted lineups and stats | Fotmob
- [3] Maccabi Tel Aviv vs Pafos FC live score, H2H and lineups | Sofascore
- [4] PAFOS 1 1 MACCABI TEL AVIV | HIGHLIGHTS 22-07-2025 – YouTube
- [5] Pafos 1-1 Maccabi Tel-Aviv (Jul 22, 2025) Final Score – ESPN