Maccabi Tel Aviv vs D. Zagreb Prediction & Betting Tips (2 October)

Maccabi Tel Aviv and Dinamo Zagreb are set to clash in a pivotal Europa League group stage encounter, staged at the neutral TSC Arena in Serbia due to ongoing restrictions on Israeli clubs hosting European fixtures. Maccabi Tel Aviv, reigning champions of the Israeli Premier League, opened their campaign with a gritty 0-0 draw away to PAOK Salonika, showcasing defensive resilience but lacking attacking sharpness. Under the guidance of Zarko Lazetic, appointed in July 2024, the team has leaned on a youthful core, with 14 national team players and standout midfielder Kristijan Belic, recently acquired from Partizan Belgrade, anchoring the middle of the park.

Dinamo Zagreb, meanwhile, arrive with momentum after dispatching Fenerbahçe 3-1 in their opening group match. Despite losing their domestic crown to Rijeka last season, Mario Kovacevic’s side has regrouped impressively. Kovacevic, who took over in June 2025, has instilled a more aggressive attacking philosophy, evident in their recent performances. The Croatian outfit boasts a higher market value and experience, with striker Dion Beljo—standing at 1.95 meters and valued at €4 million—emerging as a key threat in the final third. Their blend of seasoned internationals and dynamic youth gives them a slight edge on paper.

The tactical battle promises intrigue. Maccabi Tel Aviv will likely adopt a compact shape, aiming to frustrate Dinamo’s fluid attack and strike on the counter. Lazetic’s side has shown discipline and cohesion, but questions remain about their ability to convert chances under pressure. Dinamo, conversely, will look to dominate possession and exploit aerial mismatches through Beljo and their wide playmakers. The neutral venue adds a layer of unpredictability, but Zagreb’s recent form and firepower suggest they’ll be the aggressors from the outset.

Despite Dinamo’s pedigree, Maccabi’s defensive grit and home-away-from-home mentality could tilt the balance. Expect a tense affair with moments of brilliance from both sides. Our prediction leans toward a narrow 2-1 victory for Maccabi Tel Aviv, capitalizing on set-piece opportunities and a late surge to edge past their Croatian rivals. It’s a scoreline that reflects both teams’ current trajectories—Dinamo’s attacking flair meeting Maccabi’s strategic resolve in a Europa League showdown that could shape the group’s destiny.