In-depth Analysis
Crvena Zvezda returns to Rajko Mitic Stadium with a valuable advantage after a disciplined 1-0 win in France in the first leg. This marks their first victory in France after nine away matches, coming at a time when Lille’s form in the 2026 season has started to decline.
The Serbian champions recently secured a 3-0 win in the derby against Partizan, boosting both morale and atmosphere ahead of a European night where they hope to end their long-standing knockout stage drought. In fact, Crvena Zvezda has not won a major European knockout match since September 2007, but they remain unbeaten in their last four European knockout games at home (2 wins, 2 draws).
Meanwhile, Lille aim to prove that the tie is still open. Their weekend victory over Angers stabilized their domestic form, but their record in European competitions remains concerning. Lille have won only 2 of 16 major away knockout matches in Europe (7 draws, 7 losses), and notably, they have never progressed after losing the first leg of a European knockout tie.
History seems to favor the home side, even though French clubs in general have performed well in Belgrade, winning 4 of 6 previous visits. Lille’s only trip to Belgrade earlier this season ended in a 0-1 defeat.