Sheriff Tiraspol vs Maccabi Tel Aviv: Match Preview, Predictions and Betting Tips
Published on Tuesday, 21 July 2026 by Steve
Sheriff Tiraspol vs Maccabi Tel Aviv
UEFA Europa League Prediction & Betting Tips
Match Overview
Sheriff Tiraspol v Maccabi Tel Aviv LIVE 23/07/2026 | Football - Flashscore
The 2026–27 UEFA Europa League second qualifying round brings together two clubs with vastly different European pedigrees as FC Sheriff Tiraspol host Maccabi Tel Aviv at the iconic Sheriff Stadium in Tiraspol, Moldova. This first-leg encounter promises to be a fascinating tactical battle between the Moldovan giants, who have seen their domestic dominance challenged in recent seasons, and the Israeli powerhouse looking to re-establish themselves on the continental stage after a disappointing 2025–26 Europa League campaign. Sheriff Tiraspol enter this tie on the back of a hard-fought 1–0 aggregate victory over Slovenian side Aluminij in the first qualifying round, showcasing their trademark defensive resilience and ability to grind out results in high-pressure European fixtures. For Maccabi Tel Aviv, this represents their first competitive outing of the 2026–27 season, having earned their place in the Europa League qualifying rounds through their third-place finish in the 2025–26 Israeli Premier League.
The contrast in squad composition and tactical philosophy between these two sides could not be more stark. Sheriff Tiraspol have undergone significant squad rebuilding during the summer of 2026, bringing in no fewer than seven new players to bolster their ranks as they look to reclaim the Moldovan Super Liga title they lost to Petrocub Hîncești last season. Their squad remains a melting pot of young Moldovan talent and experienced foreign imports, with Colombian striker Jayder Asprilla emerging as their primary attacking threat. Maccabi Tel Aviv, meanwhile, boast a more settled and cosmopolitan squad under new permanent head coach Kenny Miller, with a blend of seasoned Israeli internationals and exciting foreign acquisitions. The Yellow-and-Blue will be keen to make an immediate statement in Europe under their Scottish manager, who guided the club to the Israeli State Cup title in May 2026 and was subsequently handed the permanent reins for the new campaign.
The historical context of this fixture adds another layer of intrigue. Both clubs have experienced the highs and lows of European football over the past two decades, with Sheriff Tiraspol famously becoming the first Moldovan club to reach the UEFA Champions League group stage in 2021–22, while Maccabi Tel Aviv have been regular participants in the Europa League group phases and even reached the Round of 16 in the 2023–24 season. However, neither side has managed to sustain consistent European success, and both view this qualifying campaign as a crucial opportunity to reassert their continental credentials. The match will be played at Sheriff's formidable home ground, where the Yellow-Blacks have traditionally been extremely difficult to break down, making this a potentially tricky assignment for Maccabi Tel Aviv despite their overall superior squad depth and individual quality. With both teams eager to take a positive result into the second leg, this encounter is likely to be a cagey, tactical affair decided by fine margins.
Tactical Preview
Maccabi Tel Aviv ready for winner of Sheriff Tiraspol and Aluminij in Europa League 2nd round qualifying play - Sports Rabbi
Formation & Key Matchups
Sheriff Tiraspol 4-2-3-1
Under head coach Victor Mihailov, Sheriff Tiraspol have typically deployed a disciplined 4-2-3-1 formation that prioritizes defensive solidity and quick transitions. The Moldovan side are expected to sit deep and absorb pressure, looking to hit Maccabi Tel Aviv on the counter-attack through the pace and directness of Jayder Asprilla and the creative instincts of Dhoraso Klas in the number 10 role. The double pivot of Samba Koné and Vsevolod Nihaev will be tasked with shielding the back four and disrupting Maccabi's build-up play, while the full-backs, likely Raí and Danila Forov, will need to balance their defensive duties with providing width on the counter. Sheriff's approach will be pragmatic—they know that a clean sheet at home would represent a significant advantage heading into the return leg, and they will not be afraid to sacrifice possession in favor of defensive organization. The key for Sheriff will be maintaining their shape for 90 minutes and capitalizing on any mistakes from a Maccabi side that may still be finding their rhythm early in the season.
Maccabi Tel Aviv 4-3-3
Kenny Miller has favored a possession-based 4-3-3 system since taking charge at Maccabi Tel Aviv, and there is little reason to expect a deviation from that approach in this away fixture. The Israeli side will look to dominate the ball and patiently probe for openings in Sheriff's compact defensive block. Captain Dor Peretz will anchor the midfield, with Kristijan Belić and Issouf Sissokho providing energy and box-to-box presence on either side. The front three of Osher Davida, Ion Nicolaescu, and Emir Sahiti offer a potent mix of pace, physicality, and technical quality, and they will be expected to stretch Sheriff's defense and create overloads in wide areas. Maccabi's full-backs, particularly Roy Revivo on the left, will be encouraged to push high and provide additional attacking width. The challenge for Miller's side will be breaking down a well-organized defense without becoming frustrated or leaving themselves vulnerable to the counter-attack. Patience and precision in the final third will be essential.
Critical Vulnerability
Sheriff Tiraspol's most significant tactical vulnerability lies in their relative lack of pace in central defense, where the partnership of Raí and Soumaïla Magossouba could be exposed by Maccabi's quick, incisive passing and the movement of Ion Nicolaescu in behind the defensive line. If Maccabi can draw Sheriff's midfielders out of position and play through the lines, they could create several clear-cut opportunities. Conversely, Maccabi Tel Aviv's high defensive line and commitment to playing out from the back could leave them susceptible to Sheriff's counter-attacks, particularly if Jayder Asprilla is able to isolate the Maccabi center-backs in one-on-one situations. The battle between Maccabi's full-backs and Sheriff's wide attackers will also be crucial—if Sheriff can exploit the spaces left behind by Maccabi's advancing full-backs, they could generate dangerous crossing situations and set-piece opportunities. Set pieces may prove to be Sheriff's most reliable route to goal given their aerial threat and Maccabi's occasional vulnerability from dead-ball situations.
Team News & Squad Status
Sheriff Tiraspol 📉
- New Signings (Summer 2026): Ion Ciobanu (MF, Nürnberg II), Vlad Lupașco (FW, Dacia Buiucani), Vladimir Fratea (MF, Zimbru Chișinău), Miguel Mota (DF, Paços Ferreira), Victor Ciumașu (MF, Dacia Buiucani), Arli Pergjoni (MF, Bylis), Samba Koné (MF, Académico de Viseu), Jair Modelo (DF, CAI de La Chorrera), Juanca Pineda (MF, Beroe Stara—on loan)
- Key Departures: Mollo Bessala (to LNZ Cherkasy), Liam Hermesh (to Maccabi Haifa), Artiom Dijinari (to Dacia Buiucani)
- Injury Concerns: No major injury concerns reported ahead of this fixture. Full squad available for selection.
- Form: Sheriff have started their domestic campaign positively, with victories over FCM Ungheni (5–1), Milsami Orhei (3–1), and Dacia Buiucani (3–0) in pre-season and early league fixtures. They defeated Aluminij 1–0 on aggregate in the first qualifying round.
- Player to Watch: Colombian striker Jayder Asprilla has been in scintillating form, scoring freely in pre-season and already notching 10 goals in 15 appearances since joining the club. His pace and clinical finishing make him Sheriff's most dangerous weapon.
Maccabi Tel Aviv 📈
- Squad Status: Maccabi Tel Aviv have retained the core of their squad from the 2025–26 season, with captain Dor Peretz, defensive stalwart Raz Shlomo, and attacking talisman Ion Nicolaescu all remaining at the club. The squad has been bolstered by the permanent appointment of Kenny Miller as head coach.
- Key Departures: Several squad players have departed on loan, including Yoav Gerafi (Hapoel Haifa), Noam Schwarz (Hapoel Kfar Shalem), Orel Baye (Hapoel Petah Tikva), Hisham Layous (Levadiakos), Ido Oli (Hapoel Kfar Shalem), and Roy Nawi (Hapoel Haifa).
- Injury Concerns: As this is their first competitive match of the season, Maccabi are expected to have a fully fit squad available. Pre-season training has gone smoothly under Kenny Miller's guidance.
- Form: Maccabi's most recent competitive action came in the Israeli Super Cup on 17 July 2026, where they defeated Israeli Premier League champions Hapoel Be'er Sheva 3–1 in a commanding performance that showcased their attacking prowess and defensive organization.
- Player to Watch: Moldovan international Ion Nicolaescu, who ironically faces his homeland club, will be the focal point of Maccabi's attack. The 26-year-old forward has been a consistent goalscorer for the Yellow-and-Blue and will be eager to make an impact against Sheriff. Emir Sahiti, on loan from Hamburger SV, provides additional creativity and flair from the right wing.
Predicted Lineups
Maccabi Tel Aviv faces Sheriff Tiraspol in Europa League qualifier | The Jerusalem Post
| Sheriff Tiraspol 4-2-3-1 | Maccabi Tel Aviv 4-3-3 |
|---|---|
| GK: Ivan Dyulgerov | GK: Roi Mishpati |
| RB: Danila Forov | RB: Tyrese Asante |
| CB: Raí | CB: Raz Shlomo |
| CB: Soumaïla Magossouba | CB: Mohamed Ali Camara |
| LB: Bourama Fomba | LB: Roy Revivo |
| DM: Samba Koné | DM: Dor Peretz (C) |
| DM: Vsevolod Nihaev | CM: Kristijan Belić |
| RW: Zé Flores | CM: Issouf Sissokho |
| AM: Dhoraso Klas | RW: Emir Sahiti |
| LW: Sapata | LW: Osher Davida |
| ST: Jayder Asprilla | ST: Ion Nicolaescu |
Head-to-Head Record
Sheriff Tiraspol vs Maccabi Tel Aviv Prediction & Betting Tips | 23/07/2026 | FootballPredictions.com
This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between Sheriff Tiraspol and Maccabi Tel Aviv, making it a historic occasion for both clubs. The lack of previous encounters means there is no established psychological advantage for either side, and both teams will be venturing into unfamiliar territory. Sheriff Tiraspol's experience in European competitions has primarily come against teams from Eastern Europe, the Balkans, and Scandinavia, while Maccabi Tel Aviv have faced a more diverse range of opponents across the continent. The absence of head-to-head history adds an element of unpredictability to this tie, as neither manager can rely on past results to inform their tactical approach. Instead, both Victor Mihailov and Kenny Miller will need to rely on their scouting departments and video analysis to identify weaknesses in their opponents' play.
While there is no direct head-to-head record to analyze, both clubs have extensive experience in European qualifying rounds and can draw on their respective histories in similar fixtures. Sheriff Tiraspol have built a reputation as formidable opponents on home soil, with their compact Sheriff Stadium creating an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams. They have upset several higher-profile opponents over the years, including their famous victory over Real Madrid in the 2021–22 Champions League. Maccabi Tel Aviv, for their part, have generally been reliable in qualifying rounds against teams from smaller leagues, though they have occasionally been caught out by well-organized defensive units. Their experience in the 2025–26 Europa League group stage, where they finished bottom of their group with just one point from eight matches, will serve as a cautionary tale and a source of motivation to avoid a repeat of that disappointment. The second leg of this tie will be played on 30 July 2026 at a neutral venue, adding another layer of complexity to the tactical calculations for both managers.
Key Players Comparison
The individual matchups across the pitch will be fascinating to watch. In goal, Bulgarian international Ivan Dyulgerov has been a reliable presence for Sheriff since joining from CSKA Sofia in 2025, and his shot-stopping ability will be crucial if Maccabi generate a high volume of chances. At the other end, Roi Mishpati brings experience and composure to the Maccabi goal. In midfield, the battle between Sheriff's industrious double pivot of Samba Koné and Vsevolod Nihaev and Maccabi's more technically gifted trio of Dor Peretz, Kristijan Belić, and Issouf Sissokho will likely determine the flow of the game. If Sheriff can disrupt Maccabi's rhythm and force them into hurried passes, they will fancy their chances of keeping the scoreline tight. However, if Maccabi's midfielders can find space between the lines and feed their front three regularly, Sheriff's defense will be in for a long evening. The wide areas will also be crucial—Sheriff's Zé Flores and Sapata will need to track back diligently to help their full-backs contain the threat of Emir Sahiti and Osher Davida, while also looking to exploit any defensive lapses on the counter.
The Managers
Victor Mihailov
Victor Mihailov is one of the most experienced figures in Moldovan football, having served multiple stints as head coach of Sheriff Tiraspol in both interim and permanent capacities. Appointed as permanent manager in April 2025 after the departure of Mislav Karoglan, Mihailov has been tasked with steadying the ship at a club that has experienced significant managerial turnover in recent years. His familiarity with the Sheriff setup—having previously served as interim boss on several occasions—gives him a unique understanding of the club's culture and expectations. Mihailov is known for his pragmatic approach to management, prioritizing defensive organization and tactical discipline over expansive, attacking football. This philosophy has served Sheriff well in European competitions, where they have often punched above their weight against more technically gifted opponents.
Under Mihailov's guidance, Sheriff have focused on blending young Moldovan talent with experienced foreign imports, creating a squad that is both hungry and battle-hardened. The 2026 summer transfer window has seen Mihailov and the club's recruitment team bring in several players who fit this mold, including the promising Moldovan midfielders Ion Ciobanu and Vladimir Fratea, as well as the experienced Malian midfielder Samba Koné from Portuguese football. Mihailov's challenge in this tie will be to instill belief in his squad that they can compete with a team of Maccabi Tel Aviv's caliber, while also ensuring they remain tactically disciplined and do not leave themselves exposed to Maccabi's attacking threats. His ability to motivate his players for big European nights has been evident in Sheriff's past qualifying campaigns, and he will be counting on that same spirit to carry them through this difficult tie.
Kenny Miller
Kenny Miller's appointment as permanent head coach of Maccabi Tel Aviv in June 2026 represents one of the more intriguing managerial stories in European football. The 46-year-old Scot joined the club in January 2026 as part of Ronny Deila's coaching staff and was thrust into the interim head coach role when Deila took a leave of absence late in the 2025–26 season. What followed was a remarkable turnaround, as Miller guided Maccabi to victory in the Israeli State Cup Final, defeating Hapoel Be'er Sheva 2–1 at Teddy Stadium to secure the club's 25th cup title. That triumph convinced owner Mitch Goldhar and sporting director Steven Vanharen to hand Miller the permanent job, despite his relative lack of top-level managerial experience.
Miller has quickly established himself as a manager who values high-intensity pressing, quick transitions, and attacking football—philosophies that align well with Maccabi Tel Aviv's traditional identity as one of Israel's most progressive clubs. Under his guidance, Maccabi have looked to dominate possession and control games through their technical superiority, while also improving their defensive organization and set-piece defending. Miller's playing career, which included spells at Celtic, Rangers, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and the Scottish national team, has given him a wealth of experience to draw upon, and his man-management skills have been praised by players and staff alike. This Europa League qualifying campaign represents Miller's first taste of European management, and he will be eager to make a positive impression. His ability to prepare his team tactically for the unique challenges posed by Sheriff Tiraspol's defensive approach will be a key factor in determining the outcome of this tie.
Betting Predictions & Tips
Odds: 1.65
This is our top recommendation for this fixture. Sheriff Tiraspol's defensive approach under Victor Mihailov, combined with Maccabi Tel Aviv's likely cautious start to their European campaign, points toward a low-scoring affair. Sheriff have kept clean sheets in two of their three competitive matches this season, and their priority will be to avoid conceding an away goal. Maccabi, while possessing superior attacking talent, may struggle to break down a well-organized defensive block on an unfamiliar pitch. The Under 2.5 Goals market has landed in 7 of Sheriff's last 10 European home fixtures, and we expect that trend to continue here. For bettors looking for a reliable over under prediction, this is the standout selection.
Odds: 2.75
For those seeking slightly higher returns, the Maccabi Tel Aviv to Win to Nil market offers excellent value. While Sheriff will be difficult to break down, Maccabi's superior quality and the fact that this is Sheriff's first real test of the season against elite opposition suggests the Israeli side could edge this contest without conceding. Maccabi kept a clean sheet in their recent Super Cup victory over Hapoel Be'er Sheva, and their defensive organization under Kenny Miller has improved markedly. If Maccabi can score early and force Sheriff to chase the game, the spaces that open up could allow the visitors to control proceedings and protect their lead. This bet combines Maccabi's win probability with their defensive solidity for an attractive price.
Odds: 1.85
The match result market favors Maccabi Tel Aviv, and with good reason. The Israeli side boast greater squad depth, more individual quality, and significantly more experience at this level of European competition. While Sheriff's home advantage cannot be discounted, Maccabi's tactical sophistication and ability to control possession should ultimately see them through. The key will be patience—if Maccabi can avoid frustration and maintain their structure for 90 minutes, their quality should tell in the closing stages. For those looking for sure win predictions, Maccabi represent the safer option in this matchup, though the odds reflect the competitive nature of the fixture.
Odds: 5.50
Our predicted scoreline of 0-1 aligns with the expectation of a tight, cagey contest decided by a single moment of quality. Maccabi Tel Aviv have the players capable of producing that moment—whether through Ion Nicolaescu's predatory instincts, Emir Sahiti's individual brilliance, or a well-worked team goal involving Dor Peretz and Kristijan Belić. Sheriff, meanwhile, will be content to keep the scoreline respectable and take their chances in the second leg. A 0-1 result would represent an ideal outcome for both sides in many respects: Maccabi would take a crucial away goal and a lead into the return fixture, while Sheriff would remain within touching distance and avoid the psychological blow of a heavy defeat. For correct score tips, the 0-1 scoreline offers an excellent balance of probability and payout.
Odds: 4.20
For bettors who enjoy a speculative punt, backing Ion Nicolaescu to open the scoring at 4.20 offers intriguing value. The Moldovan international will be highly motivated to perform against his homeland's most famous club, and his physical presence and clinical finishing make him a constant threat in and around the penalty area. Nicolaescu has been Maccabi's most reliable goalscorer over the past two seasons, and if Maccabi are to break the deadlock, there is a strong chance he will be the man to do it. The narrative of a Moldovan player scoring against Sheriff Tiraspol adds an extra layer of appeal to this selection. However, as with all first goalscorer bets, the risk is elevated, so this should be treated as a fun speculative play rather than a core bet.
📊 Final Score Prediction
Match Analysis
We predict a narrow 0-1 victory for Maccabi Tel Aviv in this first-leg encounter. The Israeli side's superior technical quality, greater European experience, and the momentum gained from their Israeli Super Cup triumph should prove decisive against a Sheriff Tiraspol side that, while well-organized and dangerous on the counter, lacks the individual brilliance to trouble Maccabi consistently over 90 minutes. The match is likely to be a tense, tactical affair with few clear-cut chances, but Maccabi's patience and precision in the final third should eventually yield a breakthrough—potentially from a set piece or a moment of individual quality from Ion Nicolaescu or Emir Sahiti. Sheriff will make life difficult for their visitors and may threaten on the counter through Jayder Asprilla, but we expect Maccabi's defensive discipline to hold firm and secure a valuable away win and clean sheet.
From a betting perspective, the Under 2.5 Goals market at 1.65 is the safest and most logical selection, while the Correct Score 0-1 at 5.50 offers excellent value for those willing to take a slightly higher risk. Maccabi Tel Aviv to Win to Nil at 2.75 is another strong option that reflects the likely pattern of the game. For accumulator builders, combining Maccabi Win with Under 3.5 Goals could provide a solid foundation for a win accumulator. Whatever your betting strategy, this fixture promises to be a compelling opening chapter in what could be a closely contested qualifying tie.
Key Insights & Statistics
/https%3A%2F%2Fsportsmole-media-prod.s3.gra.io.cloud.ovh.net%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F07%2Fdor-peretz-in-action-for-maccabi-tel-aviv-on-december-11-2025-picture-alliance-6a6050a64d9e2267355242.jpg "Preview: Sheriff Tiraspol vs. Maccabi Tel Aviv - prediction, team news, lineups - Sports Mole")
Preview: Sheriff Tiraspol vs. Maccabi Tel Aviv - prediction, team news, lineups - Sports Mole
- First-Ever Meeting: This is the inaugural competitive fixture between Sheriff Tiraspol and Maccabi Tel Aviv, with no previous head-to-head history to inform either side's approach.
- Sheriff's Home Fortress: Sheriff Tiraspol have lost only 3 of their last 15 European home matches, showcasing their ability to make the Sheriff Stadium a difficult venue for visiting teams.
- Maccabi's Super Cup Momentum: Maccabi Tel Aviv defeated Hapoel Be'er Sheva 3–1 in the Israeli Super Cup on 17 July 2026, demonstrating their readiness for the new season under Kenny Miller.
- Asprilla in Form: Sheriff striker Jayder Asprilla has scored 10 goals in just 15 appearances for the club and will be their primary goal threat in this tie.
- Miller's European Debut: This marks Kenny Miller's first European match as a head coach, adding an element of unpredictability to Maccabi's tactical approach.
- Neutral Venue Second Leg: The return leg on 30 July 2026 will be played at a neutral venue, meaning Sheriff will not enjoy home advantage in the decisive match.
- Low-Scoring Trend: 7 of Sheriff's last 10 European home fixtures have produced Under 2.5 Goals, reinforcing the expectation of a tight, defensive contest.
- Moldovan vs. Moldovan: Maccabi striker Ion Nicolaescu is a Moldovan international facing his homeland's most successful club, adding a compelling narrative to the fixture.
- Squad Turnover: Sheriff have signed 9 new players this summer, while Maccabi have retained the core of their squad, giving the Israeli side greater continuity.
- Defensive Records: Sheriff kept a clean sheet in their first qualifying round victory over Aluminij, while Maccabi conceded just 32 goals in 26 Israeli Premier League matches last season.
Conclusion
The UEFA Europa League second qualifying round first leg between Sheriff Tiraspol and Maccabi Tel Aviv promises to be a compelling tactical chess match between two clubs with contrasting styles and ambitions. Sheriff Tiraspol, under the experienced Victor Mihailov, will look to frustrate their more illustrious opponents with a disciplined defensive display and threaten on the counter through the in-form Jayder Asprilla. Their rebuilt squad, featuring several exciting summer signings, will be eager to prove that they can still compete at this level despite losing their domestic crown last season. The Yellow-Blacks know that a positive result at home is essential, given that the second leg will be played on neutral territory, and they will throw everything into making life as uncomfortable as possible for Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Maccabi Tel Aviv, meanwhile, arrive in Moldova with confidence high after their Super Cup triumph and the permanent appointment of Kenny Miller as head coach. The Israeli side possess the technical quality, tactical sophistication, and individual brilliance to break down even the most stubborn defenses, and they will be expected to control possession and dictate the tempo of the game. However, they must guard against complacency and frustration—Sheriff have made a habit of upsetting the odds in European competition, and Maccabi will need to be at their clinical best to avoid a damaging slip-up. A narrow away victory, ideally without conceding, would represent the perfect start to their European campaign and set them up nicely for the return fixture.
From a betting perspective, the markets reflect the expectation of a closely contested, low-scoring encounter. Our prediction of a 0-1 Maccabi Tel Aviv victory is grounded in the Israeli side's superior quality and Sheriff's tendency to prioritize defensive solidity over attacking ambition in European fixtures. The Under 2.5 Goals market at 1.65 is our best pick, while the Correct Score 0-1 at 5.50 offers excellent value for those seeking higher returns. Ultimately, this tie is likely to be decided by fine margins—a single goal, a moment of individual brilliance, or a defensive lapse could prove the difference. For fans of hot predictions and European football enthusiasts alike, this is a fixture not to be missed. Be sure to check out our prediction football today page for more expert analysis and betting tips across all major competitions.