Europa League and Conference League qualifying action dominates the Thursday football schedule, with a batch of compelling second-leg encounters set to unfold across the continent.
Bet of the Day: Over 2.5 Goals in Derry City vs CSKA Sofia @ 20/23
Derry City face the task of overturning a 3-2 first-leg deficit when they welcome CSKA Sofia to Brandywell in Europa League qualifying. The Candystripes were outshot 17-6 in Bulgaria but kept their hopes alive thanks to a late James Olayinka strike that trimmed the gap to a single goal.
With no option but to push forward in the return fixture, expect an open and entertaining affair. Goals have been a recurring theme in Derry's recent outings — both teams found the net in five of their last six League of Ireland matches, a run that includes a 4-1 demolition of Bohemians in June and a wild 4-2 home loss to Waterford this month.
CSKA Sofia carry a potent attacking threat of their own through striker Ioannis Pittas, who bagged a brace in the first leg. The Cyprus international also netted in both World Cup qualifiers against Bosnia — a nation that went on to defeat Italy in the play-off final. He looks well placed to contribute to another goal-laden contest.
Bet Builder: Ferencvaros to Win & Both Teams to Score vs Vojvodina Novi Sad @ 31/20
Ferencvaros bring a 2-1 advantage into their home second leg against Serbian outfit Vojvodina Novi Sad, and their European pedigree suggests they can finish the job in style. The Hungarians reached the Europa League last 16 during their impressive 2024-25 campaign, boasting home victories over Ludogorets (twice), Rangers and Braga while drawing with Viktoria Plzen and Panathinaikos.
Their continental credentials were further underlined by a memorable 3-2 away triumph over RB Salzburg. However, Vojvodina showed they can cause problems — they managed 13 shots in the first leg. The Serbian side's pre-season included a 2-1 loss to Gyori ETO, who pipped Ferencvaros to the Hungarian title last season, suggesting they can trouble the hosts even in defeat once more.
Acca of the Day: Dynamo Kyiv, Sheriff Tiraspol & Hamrun Spartans All to Win @ 17/5
Dynamo Kyiv peppered Universitatea Cluj's goal with 27 shots compared to just three in reply during their goalless first leg, and they should fancy their chances of completing the job when they travel to Romania for the return fixture.
Sheriff Tiraspol face a similar situation after dominating possession (63 per cent) in a 0-0 home draw with Slovenia's Aluminij. Despite firing 24 shots without reward, the Moldovan side remain strong favourites to advance on the road.
Completing the treble, Hamrun Spartans look well positioned to see off Conference League opponents Runavik at home. The Maltese club qualified for the competition's league phase in 2025-26, and their 1-1 draw in the Faroe Islands last week puts them in a strong position to progress.
Elsewhere, Qarabag — who lost to Newcastle United in last season's Champions League playoff round — carry a commanding 3-0 lead into their trip to Iceland's Vestri.
Odds correct at time of publishing and subject to change. Please gamble responsibly. 18+. GambleAware.org