Crvena Zvezda enters tonight’s Europa League playoff first leg against Viktoria Plzeň with a strong record against Czech opposition in European competition. The Serbian champions have won four of their eight previous matches against Czech clubs, alongside one draw and three defeats, with an overall goal difference of 11 to 9. The match comes at an important moment for Crvena Zvezda. After being eliminated by Hapoel Beer Sheva in Champions League qualifying, the Serbian champions must now overcome Viktoria Plzeň to reach the Europa League league phase. The first leg will be played at the Rajko Mitić Stadium in Belgrade on August 20, with the return match scheduled for August 27 in Plzeň.
One of Zvezda’s most successful encounters with Czech opposition came against Sparta Prague. The two clubs have met twice in European competition, with Zvezda winning both matches and keeping clean sheets. Their most recent meeting ended in a 1 to 0 victory for the Serbian side in Prague. Viktoria Plzeň, however, presents a different challenge. The Czech club has established itself as a regular participant in European competitions and has accumulated considerable experience at continental level. Its recent European campaigns have also demonstrated its ability to compete against experienced opponents.
The timing of the tie makes it particularly important for both teams. Zvezda is trying to secure a place in the Europa League after missing out on the Champions League, while Plzeň is also fighting for a place in the competition’s league phase. The winner over the two legs will advance to the league phase, adding significant pressure to both matches. Zvezda will have home advantage in the opening match at the Rajko Mitić Stadium. The club has confirmed that the first leg will begin at 8 p.m. local time on August 20, while the return match will take place at Plzeň’s Doosan Arena on August 27.
History gives Crvena Zvezda reason for optimism, but it cannot guarantee success against Viktoria Plzeň. The Serbian side has performed well against Czech opposition overall, while the visitors arrive with significant European experience of their own. With a place in the Europa League league phase at stake, the two legged battle could become another important chapter in Zvezda’s European campaign.
