Dinamo Minsk vs Ludogorets: UEFA Champions League Prediction (17.07.2025)

On July 17, 2025, at 01:45 WIB, the second leg of the Champions League 1/8 qualifying round between Dinamo Minsk and Ludogorets will take place at the Mezőkövesd Városi Stadium in Hungary. Bookmakers consider the Bulgarian side to be the favorites, but the intrigue in this matchup remains alive. Let’s examine the current form of both teams and provide our match prediction.

Dinamo Minsk

The first leg was played away by the Minsk side. The team focused on defense and fully gave up possession to the opponent (28% to 72%). Dinamo relied solely on quick counterattacks and set-pieces, spending most of the match trying to contain their opponent. This strategy could have paid off had they not conceded a goal in the 87th minute.

Notably, Dinamo used a 4-4-2 formation, whereas in domestic matches, they typically play with three central defenders. Coach Vadim Skripchenko likely adjusted the setup due to the stronger level of opposition compared to their national league. Given the result of the first leg, it’s likely there will be changes in the starting lineup. For example, Vardanyan performed well after coming off the bench, and his quick runs could be useful in counterattacking situations.

Ludogorets

Ludogorets did not enter Champions League qualification in the best form. They failed to win any of their four friendly matches. Additionally, the team underwent a roster overhaul and is now under new management. Nevertheless, Ludogorets outplayed Dinamo Minsk on quality and dominated the first leg.

Changes in the lineup are also expected for the visitors. Coach Rui Mota will be without at least two key players. Todor Nedelev, who played in the first match, has since transferred to Botev. Agibu Camara was injured in that game, and Nedelev had been his replacement. It’s worth noting that Ludogorets will not sit back defensively in the away leg but may play more cautiously in attack to avoid exposing themselves to counterattacks.

Stats and Head-to-Head Record

The teams have faced each other three times over the past year. Ludogorets won both home matches, while Dinamo Minsk claimed a 1-0 victory at home. In all three encounters, the total goals were under 2.5.

Prediction

For the Dinamo Minsk vs. Ludogorets match, we predict a low-scoring outcome. Historical head-to-head stats support this view. Also, given the favorable scoreline for Ludogorets, the favorite is likely to adopt a more pragmatic approach. We recommend betting on under 2.5 total goals at odds of 1.82.