The second qualifying round for the 2022-23 Champions League campaign will continue this week with Maribor set to welcome Sheriff Tiraspol for their first leg encounter. Both teams will be pushing to get things started with a strong performance in this one to provide themselves with the best possible start heading into the next match.
Match preview
Maribor showcased great quality in the first qualifying round as they proved to be resilient defensively in order to secure their place in this stage of the competition. The Slovenian team were drawn against Soligorsk in that round, and they did not concede a goal in either game, which is something that will have brought plenty of confidence to the squad.
The first leg of that round was one that Maribor played in front of their own fans, which led to a goalless draw, but they followed that up with a dominant 2-0 victory to give themselves a chance of qualifying for the competition.
Maribor Champions League form:
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Sheriff Tiraspol Champions League form:
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Team News
There is a concern that a lack of goals could be a problem for Maribor this season following the retirement of Marcos Tavares, who was the all-time leading goalscorer for the club. Baturina showcased that he could be capable of filling that gap this season though after he bagged a brace in their last Champions League game, and he will be sure to lead the line this week.
Maribor possible starting lineup:
Bergsen; Milec, Watson, Mitrovic, Sikosek; Repas, Makoumbou; Zugelj, Kronaveter, Bozic; Baturina
Sheriff Tiraspol possible starting lineup:
Abalora; Guedes, Kiki, Radeljic, Kpozo; Badolo, Kyabou, Lushkja; Yansane, Akanbi, Ouattara
Both of the games that these two teams played in the previous round of the competition led to close encounters, and there is no reason that this one should be any different.