FK Borac Banja Luka is set to take on Levski Sofia in the first qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday. Both teams are eager to build on their successful domestic seasons as they prepare for this significant matchup.

Match Overview

The first leg will take place at the Gradski Stadion in Banja Luka, followed by the return fixture at Levski’s Vivacom Arena – Georgi Asparuhov in Sofia on July 14. This encounter marks the inaugural competitive meeting between Borac and Levski, as they have never faced each other in UEFA competitions or any official matches.

Borac Banja Luka had a remarkable 2025-26 season, achieving their most dominant performance since gaining independence. Under the management of Vinko Marinovic, they clinched a record fourth Bosnian Premier League title with a decisive 1-0 win against Sarajevo on May 3, securing the championship with four matches remaining. The team concluded the season with an impressive record of 27 wins, five draws, and four losses across 36 league matches, allowing an average of just 0.8 goals per game.

Levski Sofia's Historic Triumph

Levski Sofia also enjoyed a historic season, ending a 17-year drought for the Bulgarian First League title, which they last won in 2009. Under head coach Julio Velazquez, Levski managed to break Ludogorets Razgrad’s long-standing dominance, which included 14 consecutive league titles. They finished their campaign with 25 wins, six draws, and five losses from 36 matches, netting 71 goals. While they previously lifted the Bulgarian Cup in the 2021-22 season, this league title holds greater significance for the club.

Levski Sofia boasts a stronger European pedigree, having been the first Bulgarian club to reach the UEFA Champions League group stage in the 2006-07 season, where they faced notable teams such as Barcelona, Chelsea, and Werder Bremen. They have also participated in several Europa League group stages and reached the European Cup quarter-finals in both the 1975-76 and 2005-06 seasons.

Key Players

Heading into the tie, Luka Juricic stands out as Borac's primary attacking threat, having scored 27 goals in all competitions during the 2025-26 season. Midfielder Stefan Savic also contributed significantly with seven goals and seven assists, while David Vukovic adds creativity in the final third. Sandi Ogrinec and Srdan Grahovac provide depth in midfield, and Nemanja Jaksic offers reliability in defense.

As both teams prepare for this crucial fixture, fans can expect an exciting clash between two clubs eager to make their mark on the European stage.