Overview
- The first leg is scheduled for 7pm on Thursday, July 23, 2026 in Istanbul and will open the Europa League second qualifying round for both clubs.
- Tipsters and bookmakers have coalesced around a ‘both teams to score and over 2.5 goals’ selection based on recent form and defensive records.
- Besiktas begin the tie under new manager Vincenzo Italiano whose recent European record raises expectations for improved continental results.
- Midtjylland arrive in strong attacking form after winning their final three friendlies by an aggregate 14-3 and reaching last season’s Europa League round of 16.
- Both sides are expected to field new summer signings including Leandro Trossard and Orkun Kokcu for Besiktas and Rasmus Nissen Kristensen and Franculino for Midtjylland, with progression offering significant sporting and financial rewards by moving clubs closer to the Europa League group stage.