Araz vs Aris Prediction & Betting Tips (24 July)

Under the summer lights of the Nakchivan City Stadium, Araz welcomes Aris Thessaloniki for the first preliminary round of the Europa League 2025/26. This confrontation puts an ambitious Azeria team, carried by its audience, led by Elmar Bakhshiyev, facing a Greek club in search of redemption on the European scene, coached by Marinos Ouzounidis. Araz recently caused a sensation with an impressive 3-2 victory at home against Trabzonspor, proof of his ability to create surprise, especially on his land. However, more mixed results against Konyaspor 1-2 and Alanyaspor 0-0 highlight a persistent irregularity and a certain defensive fragility. The team clearly derives its strength from the enthusiasm of its audience, but remains vulnerable to structured opponents.

Aris Thessaloniki is going through a delicate period with three consecutive defeats against Az Alkmaar, Anderlecht and Livingston, where defensive errors and a lack of efficiency in the decisive areas have cost dearly. Despite a good start to the national season punctuated by victories against Asteras Tripolis and a draw against Crete, the club struggles to transpose its solidity into continental competitions. The Ouzounidis coach should opt for a more cautious approach to the outside, seeking to contain the opposing counters while relying on the technical quality and the experience of his players.

Even the fiercest winds off the Caspian couldn't shake Aris’s attacking swagger—and that spark was on full display against Araz. Despite Araz’s steady defensive shape and their inclination to press in phases, Aris broke through with moments of individual brilliance and collective intensity. The Greek side carried momentum from their repeated wins over Anorthosis and their goal-fest against Asteras Tripolis, proving they can unlock defenses in multiple ways. Araz, while structured and disciplined, occasionally struggled with transitions, allowing Aris to exploit pockets of space and force them onto the back foot.

However, Araz showed resilience that belied their inexperience at this level. Unlike the teams Aris faced earlier—Livingston and AZ Alkmaar, who punished defensive lapses—Araz remained compact and forced Aris to earn every attacking opportunity. The Azerbaijanis didn’t just sit back; they probed with quick passing movements and looked to catch Aris off-guard on counters. While Aris’s firepower tilted the balance, Araz’s refusal to fold suggested this isn't a side merely along for the ride. The game, though lacking shock value, brought a compelling clash of styles that made for an engaging contest.

Under the golden haze of a Baku evening, the stage is set for a tightly contested clash where Aris is tipped to edge past Araz with a narrow 1–0 victory. The prediction leans on Aris’s sharper attacking rhythm and their ability to capitalize on defensive lapses, even when playing away. Araz, while disciplined and resilient, may find it difficult to break through Aris’s compact midfield and organized backline. With the match expected to unfold in measured bursts rather than open chaos, a solitary goal could be all it takes for Aris to walk away with the advantage.

• Summary: Araz Naxçıvan PFK is going head to head with Aris Thessaloniki starting on 24 Jul 2025 at 16:00 UTC at Dalga Arena stadium, Baku city, Azerbaijan. The match is a part of the UEFA Conference League, Qualification .
• Referee: Andrei Florin Chivulete
• Araz Feedinco Rating: 6.93
• Aris Feedinco Rating: 6.75