Shkëndija vs Steaua: UEFA Champions League Prediction (23.07.2025)

On Tuesday, July 23 at 01:00 WIB, Shkëndija Tetovo will host Steaua Bucharest at the Toše Proeski National Arena in Skopje for the first leg of their UEFA Champions League 2025–2026 qualifying tie. The hosts reached this stage by winning the Macedonian championship and defeating Welsh side The New Saints in the previous round. The visitors also won their domestic league and advanced after beating Inter Club d’Escaldes from Andorra.

In the first leg between Shkëndija and Steaua, bookmakers favor the visiting team. A win for the “Red and Blacks” is priced at 3.62, with their chances of progressing set at 3.50. For the “Red and Blues,” the odds are 2.16 for a win and 1.30 to qualify. Experts do not expect a high-scoring affair in Skopje: the odds for over 2.5 goals are 2.28, while both teams to score is offered at 1.96.

Shkëndija

Jeton Beqiri managed to bring the Macedonian title back to Tetovo last season after a three-year drought. This is largely credited to his coaching, as the team lacks standout players capable of delivering exceptional performances. That was evident in the clash with the modest Welsh side The New Saints. Both legs were a display of what could be called “anti-football.” Eventually, in extra time, a Welsh defender ended the struggle by scoring an own goal, sending Shkëndija through to the second qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League.

Steaua

Under the guidance of Elias Charalambous, Steaua field a squad whose total market value is roughly ten times higher than that of their upcoming opponent. Yet, the “Red and Blues” still managed to lose 1–2 away to the semi-professional Andorran side. Despite a 3–1 home win in the first leg, the loss raises concerns about discipline and focus, suggesting there are issues beyond raw talent.

Stats and Head-to-Head Record

This will be the first-ever meeting between the two clubs.

Prediction

The Romanian side has the edge not only in quality but also in match readiness, having already played two rounds in their domestic league. Their competitive rhythm should be sharper than Shkëndija’s. The pick here is a Steaua win at odds of 2.16.