FC Midtjylland vs Besiktas prediction 30.07.2026 | Europa League

FC Midtjylland return to home soil looking to overturn a 1:0 deficit in this Europa League second qualifying round tie.

The Danish side were beaten in Istanbul last week, but they responded well at the weekend with a 3:2 league victory away to Sonderjyske.

Mads Bech Sorensen opened the scoring after 26 minutes before Valdemar Byskov doubled Midtjylland’s advantage nine minutes later, while Julius Emefile struck in the 66th minute to seal the win.

That result should lift confidence before the return leg, especially as Midtjylland showed they can still carry a threat despite their frustrating first-leg defeat against Besiktas.

A strong home record in European competitions should also give the hosts hope of overturning last week’s defeat in Turkey. The Danes won six of their last seven home continental fixtures, including victories against Celtic, Genk, and Sturm Graz. 

Head coach Mike Tullberg will be forced into at least one change, with Friday Etim suspended after his early red card in Istanbul.

Besiktas make the trip to Denmark with a narrow advantage after claiming a 1:0 win in the first leg.

Orkun Kokcu’s first-half goal secured victory in Istanbul, but despite dominating against the ten-man Danes, the Turkish side were unable to extend their lead.

Yet to kick-off their domestic campaign, Vincenzo Italiano’s side enjoyed a free weekend ahead of Thursday’s trip to Denmark. 

Besiktas’ poor away record in Europe is a concern, with the Turkish side losing seven of their last nine continental fixtures on the road.

Head coach Italiano is likely to name the same XI that  began last week’s first-leg victory. The Turks have no reported injury issues.