AEK Athens to face Levski Sofia in Champions League play-off first leg

AEK Athens is set to face Levski Sofia in the first leg of the Champions League play-offs on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. The match will take place at the Vasil Levski National Stadium in Sofia, rather than Levski's home ground, to accommodate high fan demand. Organizers have opened an additional 1,536 seats, with expectations of a total attendance exceeding 38,000 spectators for the 22:00 kickoff.

AEK coach Marko Nikolic has reported no injury concerns and plans to field his strongest starting eleven to secure a favorable result ahead of the return leg in Athens. This matchup is part of a series of Champions League play-off games held across Europe, with the goal for both clubs being a place in the tournament's League Phase.