Arda vs Rakow Prediction & Betting Tips (28 August)

In what promises to be a tense second leg of the UEFA Europa Conference League playoff, Arda Kardzhali welcomes Rakow Czestochowa to Arena Arda with a mission: overturn a narrow 1-0 deficit from the first leg. The Bulgarian side, under the meticulous guidance of Aleksandar Tunchev, has built a reputation for defensive resilience, boasting four clean sheets in their last five outings. Their recent 5-0 demolition of Botev Plovdiv in domestic action has injected confidence into the squad, with key figures like goalkeeper Anatoli Gospodinov and center-back Felix Eboa expected to anchor a disciplined backline. With no injuries or suspensions reported, Arda enters this clash at full strength, tactically primed to press and counter in their familiar 4-5-1 setup.

Rakow, meanwhile, arrives with a blend of European experience and attacking flair. Coach Marek Papszun has steered the Polish outfit through a demanding qualifying campaign, highlighted by a 2-0 aggregate win over Maccabi Haifa. Striker Jonatan Braut Brunes remains a focal point, having netted six goals in recent matches, while midfielders Michael Ameyaw and Marko Bulat provide the creative spark. Rakow’s tactical discipline is evident in their average of 83% pass accuracy and 67 shots across their last five games. However, off-field distractions have loomed large, with UEFA issuing fines following politically charged fan banners during their clash with Maccabi Haifa. Despite the controversy, Rakow’s on-pitch focus remains sharp.

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