AEK Athens faces Levski Sofia in the Champions League play-off

AEK Athens is set to play against Levski Sofia on August 18, 2026, at 22:00 at the Vasil Levski National Stadium in Bulgaria. The match marks the first leg of the Champions League play-offs, with the winner aiming to secure a spot in the competition's League Phase. AEK coach Marko Nikolic has reported a fully fit squad and emphasized the importance of performing well in this high-stakes European encounter, noting the challenge posed by a Levski side that has already competed in ten matches this season.

The atmosphere in Sofia is highly charged, with over 39,000 spectators expected to attend after Levski secured additional seating capacity by reducing buffer zones. Shortly before the scheduled kickoff, local authorities reportedly clashed with Levski fans outside the stadium, necessitating the use of tear gas to maintain order. The second leg of this tie is scheduled to take place in Athens in eight days. Following changes to squad regulations, AEK is not constrained by previous youth player participation requirements, allowing coach Nikolic greater tactical flexibility for the starting lineup in this decisive battle.