H. Beer Sheva vs AEK Athens Prediction, Preview, News, Odds: 31/7/2025

As Hapoel Beer Sheva continues its campaign in the UEFA Conference League, the Israeli side is showcasing a thoughtful mix of experience and emerging talent. The team’s tactical identity is shaped by a sturdy midfield partnership between Kings Kangwa and Lucas Ventura, complemented by an attacking trio that includes the creative Dan Biton, prolific Igor Zlatanović, and rising prospect Itay Hazut.

At the back, veterans Miguel Vítor and Hélder Lopes provide stability, supported by younger defenders Or Blorian and Mor Siman Tov. In goal, the rotation between Ofir Marciano and Niv Eliasi ensures a dependable last line of defense.

Despite their depth, Beer Sheva has struggled to unlock defenses in recent fixtures—particularly against more disciplined European opponents. Their ambition is clear, but converting that into results on the continental stage remains a work in progress.

AEK Athens in Transition, But Already in Sync

From Greece, AEK Athens FC has embarked on a transitional phase under newly appointed manager Marko Nikolić, who replaced Matías Almeyda. Known for his methodical and structured approach, Nikolić has quickly brought balance and renewed focus to a squad filled with both seasoned names and emerging talent.

Leading the line are international forwards Anthony Martial, Erik Lamela, and Frantzdy Pierrot—players capable of turning half-chances into goals. Creative duties in the midfield are handled by the dynamic trio of Orbelín Pineda, Robert Ljubicic, and captain Petros Mantalos, giving the team both fluidity and control in possession. At the back, AEK leans on the experience of Domagoj Vida, Harold Moukoudi, and Lazaros Rota, while goalkeepers Thomas Strakosha and Alberto Brignoli bring security between the posts.

This blend of strength, tactical discipline, and international pedigree has made AEK a hard side to break down—particularly in high-stakes European ties.

Head-to-Head: AEK’s Edge in Tight Affairs

In their most recent encounter, AEK Athens once again emerged with a 1–0 victory over Hapoel Beer Sheva, replicating the result from their prior meeting. The Greek club’s disciplined defense and effective midfield control suffocated Beer Sheva’s forward momentum. A decisive second-half goal highlighted AEK’s strength in turning patient buildup into end-product, while Beer Sheva’s attempts to break through were consistently stifled by AEK’s well-drilled back line.

What stood out was AEK’s ability to control the tempo, slow the game down when needed, and then strike in key moments. Beer Sheva held possession in spells, but lacked the incisive edge to disrupt AEK’s shape or create clear-cut chances.

Form Guide and Tactical Forecast

AEK Athens arrives in strong form, with recent victories over Omonia, Kortrijk, and Beerschot VA signaling a side that is finding rhythm in both attack and defense. Clean sheets have become a hallmark, and their ability to manage games from the back forward is proving to be a consistent formula.

Hapoel Beer Sheva, in contrast, has shown an ongoing inability to adapt when facing compact and organized opponents. Despite having the personnel to pose problems, their offensive build-up often falters in the final third, especially when pressed for creativity under pressure. Their matches tend to be low-scoring—11 of their last 15 fixtures have featured two goals or fewer—a testament to both their defensive caution and lack of attacking sharpness.

AEK shares a similar trend in away fixtures, with 10 of their last 11 road matches also ending under the 2.5 goal mark. This mutual preference for structure over risk suggests another tightly contested encounter is on the cards.

Prediction

While both teams have shown defensive resilience, AEK Athens FC enters this match with greater clarity, cohesion, and momentum. Their ability to capitalize on isolated opportunities, combined with Beer Sheva’s ongoing offensive struggles, sets the stage for a repeat outcome.

Expect another tactical battle where a single goal—likely from a well-timed counterattack or set-piece—separates the sides. AEK’s recent run of form, discipline in shape, and edge in quality give them the upper hand.

Prediction: Hapoel Beer Sheva 0:1 AEK Athens FC