Hapoel Beer Sheva vs Vikingur Reykjavik prediction 29.07.2026 | UEFA Champions League

Hapoel Be'er Sheva enter the second leg under pressure after suffering consecutive competitive defeats, having also lost the Israeli Super Cup shortly before beginning their European campaign. 

The Israeli club possess considerably greater European experience than their opponents, having regularly featured in UEFA competitions over the past decade. They have consistently been difficult to beat on home soil in Europe, losing only four of their last 24 UEFA matches. Be'er Sheva remained unbeaten in over 83% of those fixtures. 

Statistically, they managed only one goal from the opening leg despite enjoying lengthy spells of possession. Defensive concentration will also be crucial after conceding twice from situations where Víkingur attacked quickly in transition.

There are no major new injury concerns reported ahead of the return leg. Summer arrivals João Victor and Niv Yehoshua remain options to strengthen the attack if changes are required.

Víkingur continue to impress both domestically and in Europe. The Icelandic champions eliminated Hungarian side Győri ETO in the opening qualifying round before following it up with an excellent victory over Hapoel Be'er Sheva, extending their unbeaten home European record this season.

Víkingur's confidence is further boosted by their domestic campaign being in full swing, meaning their players are considerably sharper in competitive rhythm than their Israeli opponents, whose league season has yet to begin. 

The Icelanders have generally shown excellent defensive organisation throughout the qualifying rounds while remaining dangerous on counter-attacks and set pieces, which is further strengthened by the fact that they only concede 0.7 goals per game in their domestic competition.

No significant fresh injury concerns have emerged following the first leg, allowing coach Solvi Ottesen to field a settled starting eleven once again.