On August 28, FC Steaua Bucharest and Aberdeen face off in a decisive second leg of their Europa League playoff tie, following an entertaining 2-2 draw in the first encounter. With the tie finely balanced, both sides will be eager to secure a place in the group stage. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the match-up and betting insight.
Match Preview
FC Steaua Bucharest may be traditionally dominant in Romania, but their domestic campaign this season tells a different story. With only five points from seven Liga 1 matches, the club finds itself in a disappointing 12th place. Known for their quick wing play and possession-based build-up, Steaua have struggled to convert chances consistently—highlighting an ongoing issue with finishing.
In European competition, Steaua dispatched Drita 6-3 on aggregate in the early rounds but stumbled against Shkëndija in the Champions League qualifiers. The first leg against Aberdeen saw them race to a 2-0 lead before a red card shifted the momentum, ultimately costing them the win as Aberdeen clawed back to level the match.
Defensive vulnerabilities remain a concern, especially against more physical and high-pressing teams. Steaua have now conceded in ten straight matches, often due to lapses in concentration and poor marking during set pieces.
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Aberdeen, meanwhile, are enduring a tough start in the Scottish Premiership, sitting bottom of the table without a goal to their name after two losses. However, in Europe, they’ve shown resilience. Their performance in the first leg demonstrated grit, particularly in capitalizing on the numerical advantage after Steaua’s red card.
The Dons rely on an intense pressing game and physicality in midfield, often seeking to exploit set-pieces and aerial duels. While their form isn’t promising, they’ve shown they can respond under pressure—particularly in high-stakes fixtures like this one.
FCSB vs Aberdeen Head-to-Head (Key Match Stats)
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The first leg ended 2-2, marking the first-ever meeting between these clubs.
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Steaua have conceded in 10 consecutive matches.
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Aberdeen have only 1 win in their last 5 games (1 draw, 3 losses).
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Both teams showed defensive frailties in the first leg, with momentum swings driven by mistakes.
FCSB vs Aberdeen Lineups (Probable)
Steaua: Tirnovanu; Cretu, Graovac, Popescu, Pantia; Chiriches, Sut, Miculescu; Tănase, O. Popescu; Birligia
Aberdeen: Mitov; Jensen, Dorrington, Milne; Molloy, Palaversa, Gjeltne Nielsen; Milanović, Aušis, Keskinen; Shokler
FCSB vs Aberdeen Prediction and Betting Tip
The first leg gave us a glimpse of what to expect in the return match: attacking intent, defensive lapses, and open play. Both teams are capable going forward but lack discipline at the back—especially Steaua, who are consistently conceding.
With both sides needing a result and not known for parking the bus, goals are likely on the cards again.
Best Bet: Both Teams to Score – YES at odds of 1.72
Expect another lively contest, with chances at both ends as the fight for a Europa League group stage spot reaches its climax.
