Crvena Zvezda vs Larne prediction 29.07.2026 | Champions League Qualifiers

Crvena Zvezda have been a super-dominant team in Serbia, winning the last nine league titles. And anything but a title this season would be a massive disappointment. And indeed, they started the season great, winning the first two games against Macva 5:0 and last season's vice-champions, Vojvodina 3:1. 

Their main goal for the season is to win the domestic title, but also to qualify for the Champions League main phase, especially after failing to do so last season when Paphos surprisingly eliminated them. 

After a 3:1 win over Vojvodina, coach Dejan Stankovic spoke to the media. He said it was a perfect first half as they managed to control the game and play at a very high level. The coach was very satisfied with the start to the season but also said they need to maintain their focus because they are expecting a very long and challenging season.

Larne managed to win the title last season, finishing three points above 2nd-placed Coleraine. They have been among the best teams in the country for a few seasons now, and this result is not a surprise at all. This year, they have already won the Sharity Shield title and eliminated Tre Fiori in the 1st Round of the Champions League Qualifiers. However, after the first leg against Crvena Zvezda, it was obvious they lacked the quality for this level of competition. Nevertheless, even with a loss, they will continue in the Europa League qualifiers, but in the 3rd Round.

After a 4:0 loss to Crvena Zvezda, coach Gary Haveron spoke to the media. He said he was proud of the effort, despite the scoreline. The coach admitted that Crvena Zvezda are a real quality side and showed why they regularly compete at a high level in Europe.