The Champions League play-offs are set to commence with the first legs taking place on August 18 and 19, featuring clubs like Celtic, Fenerbahçe, and Bodø/Glimt vying for a coveted spot in the league phase. This article provides an overview of the latest odds, betting insights, and predictions for each first-leg match.

Overview of the Play-Off Round

This week marks the beginning of the Champions League play-off round, where 14 teams will compete in seven two-legged ties for the final spots in the 2026/27 league phase. The first legs are scheduled for Tuesday, August 18, and Wednesday, August 19, with the return matches taking place on August 25-26. Teams that emerge victorious will advance to the Champions League group stage, while those that do not will enter the Europa League group stage.

Match Previews and Betting Odds

Each first-leg matchup presents unique challenges and opportunities. For instance, in the clash between Levski Sofia and AEK Athens on August 18, Levski Sofia has not reached the Champions League group stage since 2006 and faced elimination in the final qualifying round of the Conference League in the past two seasons. In contrast, AEK Athens arrives with a strong record, having won the Greek title last season and reached the Conference League quarter-finals, where they narrowly lost to Rayo Vallecano. The odds favor AEK Athens, making them the best bet at 2.614 with 1xbet.

Another notable tie features GNK Dinamo Zagreb against Viking FK, also on August 18. Viking FK recently secured their first Norwegian title in 34 years but faces a formidable opponent in Dinamo Zagreb, who are making their 21st consecutive appearance in European competitions. Viking has struggled historically in the Champions League, losing all seven of their previous ties. The odds suggest a strong likelihood of a Dinamo Zagreb victory, with the best bet at 1.78 with 22bet.

Fenerbahçe vs Lyon

Fenerbahçe will take on Lyon, with both teams having navigated tough qualifying rounds to reach this stage. Fenerbahçe eliminated Górnik Zabrze and Sturm Graz, while Lyon overcame a first-leg deficit against Sparta Praha to advance. This matchup is expected to be competitive as both clubs aim to secure a favorable position heading into the second leg.

As the Champions League play-offs kick off, fans can look forward to an exciting week of football, with each match carrying significant implications for the teams involved. The stakes are high as clubs aim for glory in Europe’s premier competition.