The Champions League qualifying round gets heated this week as Lincoln Red Imps, Romanian Champions, travel to take on Gibraltar League winners Lincoln Red Imps. The match schedules for Tuesday at Victoria Stadium with kickoff at 7 pm.
The home side has never progressed beyond this stage in the Champions League qualifying round while visitors look to reach the group stage for the first time since 2013.
The first round builds up quite momentum after knocking out unfortunate Borac Bonja Luka. In addition, CFR Cluj find themselves as favourites to progress further.
The abolishing of away goals came to the benefit of Cluj as they advanced courtesy of an extra-time goal in their 2-1 loss at the Bosnian champions. If the previous home goal criteria existed, Borac has gone through with the aggregate score tied at 3-3 due to their first-leg goal in Romania.
In addition, the side owed an unexpected defeat against low-lying lasi in the Cupa Romaniei last year to earn a spot in this glorious contest. The loss saw the departure of manager Dan Petrescu after a humbling 7-0 aggregate loss to Roma in the Europa League.
On the other hand, Lincoln Red Imps returned to a competitive match with a disappointing 2-2 draw against rivals Fola Esch. The side has never advanced through even the third qualifying rounds of Champions League.
Lincoln Red Imps vs CFR Cluj Head to Head
Both sides are yet to face each, and this marks their first encounter. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Lincoln Red Imps 5-0 CS Fola Esch
- CS Fola Esch 2-2 Lincoln Red Imps
- Glacis United 0-2 Lincoln Imps
- Lincoln Red Imps 3-0 Lions Gibraltar
- Joseph’s 2-2 Lincoln Red Imps
Away
- CFR Cluj 3-2 FC Craiova
- FC Borak Banja 2-1 CFR Cluj
- CFR Cluj 0-0 Universitatea Craiova
- CFR Cluj 1-1 Ujpest
- Cluj 1-0 Dynamo Moscow
Lincoln Red Imps Team News
The main talisman Lee Casciaro will lead the attacking lineup this week. Another veteran in the starting lineup is 38-year-old team captain Roy Chipolina in defence.
CFR Cluj Team News
There have been defensive weaknesses in their past matches; thus, Marius Sumudica will be looking to fill the gap. Striker Billel Omrani will continue in attack despite getting booked and failing to find the back of the net last time out.
Prediction and Odds
The opponents remain strong favorites to advance in both legs to make the qualifying round of the Champions League.
- CRF Cluj Win
- Goals Under 2.5
- Both Teams to Score
