As the first qualifying round of the 2024-25 Champions League approaches, Dinamo Minsk prepares to face FC Pyunik in an eagerly anticipated first-leg encounter.
Here's a detailed preview, including predictions, team news, and recent form.
Form and Recent Performance
Dinamo Minsk
Dinamo Minsk returns to Champions League qualifying for the first time since the 2005-06 season, having secured the Belarusian Premier League title last season.
They demonstrated excellent form in their domestic league, dropping points in only six of their 28 games (W22 D3 L3).
Currently, Minsk leads their domestic league with 35 points and remains the only unbeaten team after 15 matches.
Their solid defence has been a significant strength, conceding only eight goals so far this season.
FC Pyunik
FC Pyunik, winners of the Armenian top division last season, recorded 24 wins, 10 draws, and only two losses.
They concluded their season with six consecutive wins and remained unbeaten in their last 12 matches.
Pyunik is set to feature in their 12th Champions League qualifying campaign, with their best performance coming in the 2022-23 season when they reached the third round.
Despite being out of competitive action for two months, Pyunik has bolstered their squad with key player acquisitions.
Team News
Dinamo Minsk
Pavel Sedko, who scored and was then injured last weekend against Dinamo Brest, is likely to be replaced by Nigeria international Raymond Adeola.
Uladzimir Khvashchynski and Artyom Shkolik may also feature from the start after impressive performances off the bench in their last match.
Expected Lineup: Lapoukhov; Oliveira, Hawrylovich, Politevich; Pigas; Bykov, Podstrelov, Khvashchynski, Selyava, Demchenko; Adeola.
FC Pyunik
Pyunik's new signings, including Vladyslav Kulach, Martim Maia, Joao Paredes, Taron Voskanyan, and Agdon, are expected to play pivotal roles.
Centre-forward Luka Juricic remains the only significant absentee due to knee surgery.
Expected Lineup: Buchnev; Bratkov, Kovalenko, Juninho, Neves; Udo, Dashyan, Goncalves, Villela, Davidyan; Vakulenko.
Prediction
Considering Dinamo Minsk's ongoing competitive form and solid defensive record, they enter this match as the more match-fit side.
Despite Pyunik's impressive form last season, their lack of recent competitive action may give Minsk a slight edge.
Our Prediction: Dinamo Minsk 1-0 FC Pyunik
Dynama-Minsk 
Pyunik 
