Ararat-Armenia backed to strike at home against SJK

Team news

Ararat-Armenia switched to a 3-4-3 formation in their last Champions League qualifier, with Bazhankyi, Sanjolima and Edo Silon forming the front three. They came under pressure right from kickoff and were already two goals down by half-time. Fortunately, Sanjolima scored in the second half to cut the deficit, while goalkeeper Joao Barin made five saves across the match, limiting the damage to a narrow defeat and helping the team progress on aggregate.

SJK also changed to a 4-3-3 in their previous Champions League qualifier, with Seslarsevic, Andri Lemino and Gussis leading the attack. Although they had the better share of possession throughout the game, they did not create many shots. Midfielder Mario Gurovski scored twice including extra time to put them ahead at one stage, but they were eventually pegged back. The tie remained level over two legs, and SJK advanced only after a tense penalty shootout.

Ararat-Armenia have no injuries or suspensions for this match.

SJK also have no injuries or suspensions.

Recent form

Ararat-Armenia have come through two straight Champions League qualifying rounds in the same pattern: winning at home and then losing away, yet still progressing each time. That underlines their clear home-strong, away-weak profile, so they look to hold the edge again on their own ground.

SJK were involved in an open attacking battle over both legs in the previous round and only scraped through on penalties. With their defensive record away from home looking far from convincing, they are not an appealing pick here.

Head-to-head

The last meeting between the sides finished 0-0 in normal time. There were eight corners in that match.