Larne FC vs FK Crvena Zvezda prediction 21.07.2026 | UEFA Champions League Qualification

Larne come into Tuesday’s Champions League second-round tie looking to build on a hard-fought victory against San Marino champions Tre Fiori.

The Northern Irish champions came through a difficult first-round tie, winning 1:0 away from home before claiming a 2:1 second-leg victory at Windsor Park.

Nathan Rooney’s side were not entirely convincing across the two legs, but did enough to keep their Champions League campaign alive.

Larne now face a serious step up in class against the Serbian champions. Past European form suggests the hosts are unlikely to spring an upset, with the Northern Irish side failing to win ten of their last 12 home continental fixtures since 2022.

Head coach Rooney has no reported injury issues. Matthew Lusty is likely to spearhead the Larne attack on Tuesday.

FK Crvena Zvezda make the trip to Northern Ireland looking to build on a strong start to their season last weekend. 

Dejan Stanković’s side warmed up for this tie with a dominant Serbian SuperLiga victory against Macva, with Bruno Duarte, Rade Krunic and Vasilije Kostov all getting on the scoresheet in an easy 5:0 win. 

The Serbian champions now turn their attention to Champions League qualification with plenty of recent European experience to call on. Zvezda reached the league phase of the Europa League last season, picking up four wins, including impressive away victories against Sturm Graz and Malmo.

Red Star have several experienced players capable of making the difference on Tuesday. Rade Krunic and Mirko Ivanic are likely to feature, while Bruno Duarte is expected to lead the line after scoring last weekend. 

Milojevic could keep faith with much of the side that started against Macva, although Vasilije Kostov is pushing for a start after scoring twice from the bench.