The UEFA Champions League Third Qualifying Round gets underway with a captivating first-leg encounter as Ukrainian giants Dynamo Kyiv host Cypriot champions Pafos FC. This match, to be played at the Arena Lublin in Poland due to ongoing circumstances, pits a European regular against a newly crowned domestic champion looking to make its mark on the continent. Dynamo Kyiv enters the tie as the clear favorite, but Pafos FC have already shown their mettle by dispatching a more experienced opponent in the previous round.
Dynamo Kyiv have been in formidable form, winning all four of their competitive matches so far this season without conceding a single goal. Their dominant performances in the second qualifying round against Hamrun Spartans, where they won both legs 3-0, have set a high standard. Pafos FC, meanwhile, pulled off a surprising victory over Maccabi Tel Aviv, proving they are a resilient and tactically astute side. This clash is a true test of a powerhouse’s experience against an ambitious underdog, with a place in the Champions League play-off round hanging in the balance.
Match Details
- Competition: UEFA Champions League Third Qualifying Round (First Leg)
- Location: Lublin, Poland
- Stadium: Arena Lublin
- Date: Tuesday, August 5, 2025
- Kick-off Time: 2:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM BST
- Indian Time (IST): 11:30 PM IST (Tuesday, August 5, 2025)
- Referee: Sandro Schärer (Switzerland)
Head-to-Head & Form Guide
This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between Dynamo Kyiv and Pafos FC, adding an element of the unknown to this crucial tie. Both teams’ recent form will be the key indicator of their readiness for this clash.
Dynamo Kyiv:
Dynamo Kyiv’s start to the 2025/26 season has been near-perfect. Under manager Oleksandr Shovkovskyi, the team has looked solid in defense and clinical in attack. Their 6-0 aggregate victory over Hamrun Spartans was a statement of intent, and their experience in high-pressure European fixtures is a significant advantage. Key players to watch include forward Vladyslav Vanat, who has been a prolific goalscorer, and veteran winger Andriy Yarmolenko, whose experience and leadership will be invaluable. The team’s ability to maintain its defensive solidity will be crucial against an opportunistic Pafos side.
- August 2, 2025: Veres-Rivne 0–1 Dynamo Kyiv (Ukrainian Premier League)
- July 29, 2025: Dynamo Kyiv 3–0 Hamrun Spartans (Champions League Qualifying)
- July 22, 2025: Hamrun Spartans 0–3 Dynamo Kyiv (Champions League Qualifying)
- July 16, 2025: NK Osijek 1–0 Dynamo Kyiv (Club Friendly)
Pafos FC:
Pafos FC are the Cypriot champions and are competing in the Champions League for the first time in their history. They’ve already pulled off a major upset by knocking out Maccabi Tel Aviv in the previous round, winning 1-0 away after a 1-1 draw at home. This demonstrated their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. Managed by Juan Carlos Carcedo, the team shows tactical flexibility and a strong defensive structure. Key players for the visitors include their goalscoring winger Mislav Oršić and the solid central defensive pairing of Derrick Luckassen and David Goldar.
- July 30, 2025: Maccabi Tel Aviv 0–1 Pafos FC (Champions League Qualifying)
- July 22, 2025: Pafos FC 1–1 Maccabi Tel Aviv (Champions League Qualifying)
- July 13, 2025: Orlando Pirates 1–1 Pafos FC (Club Friendly)
- July 11, 2025: Pafos FC 1–0 Leyton Orient (Club Friendly)
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
Expect Dynamo Kyiv to take the initiative and dominate possession, using their attacking prowess to break down Pafos FC’s organized defense. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Dynamo’s creative players like Mykola Shaparenko and Vitaliy Buyalskyi aiming to dictate the tempo and create chances for their forwards. Pafos FC will likely sit deep and look to hit Dynamo Kyiv on the counter-attack, using the pace of their wide players and the finishing ability of their forwards. The duel between Dynamo’s defense and Pafos’ opportunistic attack will be a key factor in the outcome of the match.
How to Watch Dynamo Kyiv vs. Pafos FC on TV, Live Stream
| Country | TV/Live Stream |
|---|---|
| Ukraine | N/A |
| Cyprus | N/A |
| United Kingdom | N/A |
| United States | N/A |
| India | N/A |
Broadcasting rights for Champions League qualifying matches can vary by region. In the United Kingdom, matches may be available on TNT Sports. For other regions, check local sports broadcasters or streaming services, as these matches can be difficult to find on mainstream channels. It is also common for clubs to provide streams on their official websites or YouTube channels for European qualifiers.
Mobile & PC | Auto Quality
Mobile & PC | Auto Quality
