The UEFA Champions League Third Qualifying Round serves up one of the most anticipated ties as Austrian champions Salzburg host their Belgian counterparts, Club Brugge, at the Red Bull Arena. This fixture pits two clubs with a rich history of European competition against each other in a battle for a place in the play-off round. Salzburg, a regular presence in the Champions League group stage, will be looking to leverage their home advantage to take a commanding lead. Club Brugge, meanwhile, enters the competition at this stage and will be keen to make a strong first impression on the road.
Salzburg’s journey to this point has been a mix of dominance and inconsistency. While they comfortably dispatched their opponents in the previous round, a recent domestic league draw has raised some questions. Club Brugge, in contrast, has had a mixed start to their domestic season, but their quality and experience at this level are undeniable. The winner of this two-legged tie will be just one step away from the Champions League group stage, a massive prize for both clubs. With a classic European atmosphere expected at the Red Bull Arena, this match promises to be a thrilling and tightly contested affair.
Match Details
- Competition: UEFA Champions League Third Qualifying Round (First Leg)
- Location: Salzburg, Austria
- Stadium: Red Bull Arena
- Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025
- Kick-off Time: 1:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM CEST
- Indian Time (IST): 10:30 PM IST (Wednesday, August 6, 2025)
- Referee: Srdjan Jovanović (Serbia)
Head-to-Head & Form Guide
Salzburg and Club Brugge have a balanced head-to-head record from their two previous meetings in the 2019 Europa League. Both teams have a win each, and the rivalry is perfectly poised. This history adds an extra layer of intensity to a fixture with such high stakes.
Salzburg:
Salzburg’s recent form has been a mix of positive and negative results. While they had a strong performance in their last Champions League qualifier, they also dropped points in their domestic league opener. The team is still adapting to a new season, and this match will be a key test of their readiness. Key players to watch for Salzburg include their dynamic attacking duo of Nene Dorgeles and Edmund Baidoo, both of whom have been in good form. The team’s ability to maintain a high tempo and pressure Club Brugge’s defense will be crucial to their success.
- August 2, 2025: Ried 2–2 Salzburg (Austrian Bundesliga)
- July 30, 2025: Salzburg 1–1 Brann (Champions League Qualifying)
- July 26, 2025: Union Dietach 0–4 Salzburg (OFB Cup)
- July 23, 2025: Brann 1–4 Salzburg (Champions League Qualifying)
Club Brugge:
Club Brugge has had a mixed start to their domestic season, with a win and a loss in their first two matches. However, their quality and depth are undeniable, and they will be a formidable opponent for Salzburg. The team is known for its tactical discipline and has several key players who can change a game. Their attack, in particular, will be a concern for Salzburg’s defense. Key players to watch for Club Brugge include their experienced midfielder Hans Vanaken and forward Christos Tzolis. The team’s ability to manage the pressure of an away match in a hostile environment will be a key factor in their performance.
- August 1, 2025: KV Mechelen 2–1 Club Brugge (Belgian Pro League)
- July 27, 2025: Club Brugge 2–1 Genk (Belgian Pro League)
- July 23, 2025: Club Brugge 1–2 Patro Eisden (Club Friendly)
- July 20, 2025: Union Saint-Gilloise 1–2 Club Brugge (Belgian Super Cup)
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
Expect a high-energy, high-pressing game from Salzburg, who will look to use their home advantage to overwhelm Club Brugge. The Austrian side will aim to control the midfield and create chances through their wide players and forwards. Club Brugge, on the other hand, will likely be more pragmatic, focusing on a solid defensive shape and looking to exploit any defensive lapses from Salzburg on the counter-attack. The battle in midfield will be key, and the performance of both teams’ key attackers will determine the outcome. The experienced Serbian referee Srdjan Jovanović will need to be on top of his game to control what is expected to be a fast-paced and physical match.
How to Watch Salzburg vs. Club Brugge on TV, Live Stream
| Country | TV/Live Stream |
|---|---|
| Austria | ServusTV |
| United States | RBS TV, beIN SPORTS |
| Belgium | RBS TV |
| United Kingdom | RBS TV |
| India | RBS TV |
In Austria, the match will be broadcast live on ServusTV. In many other regions, including the United States, United Kingdom, and India, the match will be available to stream for free on RBS TV, Salzburg’s official live stream, and their YouTube channel. It is also possible that beIN SPORTS will broadcast the match in the United States.
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