CSKA 1948 Sofia vs Panathinaikos

This second leg of the UEFA Conference League third qualifying round is finely balanced after a 1-1 draw in Athens. The winner reaches the playoff round, one step from the group stage — a huge opportunity for CSKA 1948 Sofia, currently fourth in Bulgaria's First League, and a key step for Panathinaikos as they build on last season's European qualification. CSKA 1948 arrive unbeaten domestically, having followed a penalty-shootout win over Spartak Trnava with league victories over Botev Vratsa and Arda Kardzhali. Panathinaikos have been streakier, mixing wins and draws through pre-season and qualifying. In the first leg, Adriano Jagušić headed the Greeks ahead before Georgi Rusev equalized for the Bulgarians, who also outshot their more possession-heavy hosts. Rick Van Drongelen anchored the Panathinaikos defense, with Pedro Chirivella dictating tempo in midfield. With the tie level and both sides needing a result, expect a tight, cagey affair in Sofia. Our prediction: 1-2