Arda vs Rakow Prediction & Betting Tips (28 August)

For this return match of the Conference League dams, headed eastern Europe with a duel between the FK Arda Kardjali and the Rks Raków Częstochowa.The task promises to be difficult for the Arda, even more after this defeat conceded in the first leg in Polish soil. Defeated on the smallest of 1-0 margins, the Bulgarians still retain their chances of achieving the feat and of qualifying for the first time in their history for a group of European Cup group. Despite a 55 %higher ball possession, they created very few opportunities, unlike their opponent. This setback, which ended 7 games without the slightest defeat, called another since the men of Aleksandar Tnchev have just bowed in the league against Slavia Sofia 2-0.Announced as a favorite, Raków held his rank in the first leg.

However, the domination of the Poles was not so obvious. While they were sheltered early enough in the meeting thanks to a goal from Tomasz Pińko 28th minute, they failed to widen the gap more. Result: this trip to Bulgaria has everything of the trap and we will have to be mastered to keep the qualification. The players led by Marek Papszun put all the chances on their side and reported their championship match last weekend, in order to arrive fresh for this meeting.

The first leg saw Rakow edge Arda 1-0, but the statistics told a more balanced story. Arda controlled 55% possession and registered seven shots, suggesting they weren’t far off the mark. The return leg in Kardzhali will be a different beast, with the home crowd expected to play a pivotal role. Arda’s midfield trio of Akintola, Kotev, and Yusein will be tasked with dictating tempo and disrupting Rakow’s rhythm. Wingers Kovachev and Karagaren, known for their pace and delivery, could be the difference-makers in breaking down Rakow’s compact defense. The tactical chess match between Tunchev and Papszun will hinge on who can adapt quicker under pressure.

While bookmakers lean toward Rakow, the momentum may be shifting. Arda’s recent form and full squad availability set the stage for a spirited comeback. Expect a cagey opening, but as the match unfolds, Arda’s pressing and Rakow’s counter-attacking tendencies could produce fireworks. With both teams capable of finding the net and Arda desperate to erase the deficit, a 2-1 scoreline in favor of the hosts feels plausible. That result would level the aggregate and potentially force extra time, but for prediction purposes, Arda’s narrow win stands as a bold yet reasoned call.

• Summary: Arda Kardzhali is going head to head with Raków Częstochowa starting on 28 Aug 2025 at 18:00 UTC at Arena Arda stadium, Kardzhali city, Bulgaria. The match is a part of the UEFA Europa Conference League, Qualification Playoff .
• Referee: Igor Pajač