Maccabi Tel AvivBologna

Despite the neutral location in Bačka Topola, there's a significant difference on paper between the two teams. Maccabi Tel Aviv has only scored two goals in seven Europa League matches, while conceding nineteen; their number of shots and quality of chances are among the weakest in the field. Moreover, they lack their goal-scorer Nicolaescu, forcing Coach Lazetić to start with a 19-year-old striker, which further reduces the (nominally home) attacking potential.

On the other hand, Bologna's statistics are stable: in a series of seven matches, they achieved an 11-6 goal difference, averaging 1.6 expected goals and allowing 0.9 per match. Although they're in a slump in Serie A, the numbers suggest that even with a more reserve lineup, they can achieve nearly twice as many quality shots as their opponent.

There are no key absentees in the defense, though Lucumí is not yet available, but Italiano can compensate with Vitík's return. The main factors of uncertainty: the Italian team's motivation (progress is already secured), and the unpredictable impact of the neutral field. Overall, based on shot volume, shot quality, and defensive indicators, a low-scoring, Bologna-dominated game remains the most likely scenario.