Maccabi Tel Aviv vs. Dinamo Zagreb Prediction, Odds & Betting Tips

As the UEFA Europa League league phase heats up, all eyes turn to the intriguing clash between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Dinamo Zagreb on October 2, 2025. This matchup pits two storied clubs against each other in what promises to be a tactical battle at the Bloomfield Stadium in Tel Aviv. For fans searching for Maccabi Tel Aviv vs. Dinamo Zagreb prediction, odds, and betting tips, this comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a casual supporter, we’ll explore team forms, key players, historical context, and expert insights to help you make informed decisions.

The Europa League’s revamped format adds extra spice, with both teams aiming to secure valuable points early in the campaign. Maccabi Tel Aviv, the Israeli champions, come off a resilient draw against PAOK, while Dinamo Zagreb stunned Fenerbahce with a convincing win. With odds fluctuating and predictions split, this game could go either way. Let’s dive into the details.

Match Overview and Context

The UEFA Europa League 2025/26 season is in full swing, and this fixture represents Matchday 2 in the league phase. Maccabi Tel Aviv hosts Dinamo Zagreb at Bloomfield Stadium, kicking off at 19:00 local time. Due to security concerns, some reports suggest the game might be played at a neutral venue like Gradski stadion in Backa Topola, Serbia, but official confirmation points to Tel Aviv. This adds an layer of uncertainty, potentially neutralizing Maccabi’s home advantage.

Maccabi Tel Aviv entered the Europa League after a strong domestic campaign, clinching the Israeli Premier League title last season. Under manager Žarko Lazetić, they’ve shown defensive solidity, as evidenced by their 0-0 draw at PAOK’s Toumba Stadium. Dinamo Zagreb, perennial Croatian powerhouses, bounced back from losing their domestic crown to Rijeka by dominating early in the new season and delivering a 3-1 upset over Fenerbahce.

This encounter isn’t just about points; it’s a clash of styles. Maccabi’s disciplined approach contrasts with Dinamo’s attacking flair. For bettors eyeing Maccabi Tel Aviv vs. Dinamo Zagreb odds, understanding the broader context is key. The Europa League’s single-league format means every result counts toward the top-eight automatic qualifiers or playoff spots.

Team Analysis: Maccabi Tel Aviv

Recent Form and Results

Maccabi Tel Aviv has started the 2025/26 season impressively. In the Israeli Premier League, they sit second with two wins from two games, scoring convincingly against Hapoel Petah Tikva (4-0) and Hapoel Jerusalem (2-1). Their Europa League debut was a gritty 0-0 draw away to PAOK on September 24, 2025, showcasing their ability to frustrate stronger opponents.

Overall, Maccabi’s home form is excellent, with no losses in recent outings. They’ve kept clean sheets in key matches, relying on a solid backline. However, their attack has been efficient rather than prolific, averaging around 2 goals per game domestically.

Key Players and Injuries

Manager Žarko Lazetić, appointed in July 2024, has molded a balanced squad. Captain Dor Peretz, a 30-year-old Israeli midfielder, is the heartbeat of the team, providing leadership and creativity. Up front, watch for Elad Madmon and Mounsef Bakrar, both tipped as anytime goalscorers in betting markets.

Injuries pose challenges: Goalkeeper Y. Gerafi is out with a hamstring issue until late September 2025, and midfielder Kristijan Belic recovers from a rib injury. Ben Lederman and Issouf Sissokho add depth in midfield, but suspensions aren’t an issue currently.

Maccabi’s strength lies in their organization. Peretz’s passing accuracy (over 85% in recent games) could unlock Dinamo’s defense. If they exploit set-pieces, where they’ve scored 30% of goals this season, they could edge ahead.

Historical Performance in Europe

Maccabi Tel Aviv has a rich European history, reaching the Champions League group stage in 2015/16. In the Europa League, they’ve advanced from the group phase multiple times. Their experience against Eastern European sides is mixed, but home games often yield positive results.

Team Analysis: Dinamo Zagreb

Recent Form and Results

Dinamo Zagreb tops the Croatian First League after a strong start, with wins like 2-0 over Hajduk Split and 3-1 against Fenerbahce in the Europa League opener. Their form is very good: 3 wins, 0 draws, 1 loss at home, and unbeaten away. The Fenerbahce victory, featuring goals from key attackers, highlights their counter-attacking prowess.

In Champions League qualifying, they won 5, drew 2, and lost 3 across 10 matches. Losses to Gorica (1-2) show vulnerabilities, but overall, they’re scoring freely (1.89 goals away on average).

Key Players and Injuries

Under Mario Kovacevic, appointed in June 2025, Dinamo blends youth and experience. Forward Sandro Kulenovic leads the line with 4 goals, but he’s doubtful with a knock. Midfielder Josip Mišić (lack of fitness) and winger G. Vidović (ankle, out until February 2026) are sidelined. Juan Córdoba (knee) is also absent.

Standouts include Petar Bockaj (defender with attacking flair) and Rokas Pukstas, who could shine. Goalkeeper Nikola Cavlina provides stability. Dinamo’s away win rate when leading 0-1 is 68%, a stat bettors should note.

Historical Performance in Europe

Dinamo has a strong Europa League record, often progressing deep. They topped their group in 2022/23 and have faced Israeli teams before. Their experience in high-stakes games gives them an edge.

Head-to-Head History

Maccabi Tel Aviv and Dinamo Zagreb have met twice, both in the 2001 UEFA Cup: a 1-1 draw in Tel Aviv and 2-2 in Zagreb. No wins for either side, with goals aplenty (average 3 per game). Dinamo advanced on away goals then.

Recent stats show draws dominate their encounters. For this game, expect goals, given both teams’ forms.

Prediction: Who Will Win?

Predicting Maccabi Tel Aviv vs. Dinamo Zagreb is tricky. Maccabi’s defensive resilience could frustrate Dinamo, but the Croatians’ attack looks potent after beating Fenerbahce. Some experts tip Maccabi for a home win (2-1, 9% probability), while others favor Dinamo.

Our prediction: Dinamo Zagreb to win 2-1. Their confidence and away scoring ability tip the scales. Maccabi might score, but Dinamo’s depth prevails.

Odds Breakdown

Current odds for Maccabi Tel Aviv vs. Dinamo Zagreb (as of September 29, 2025):

• Maccabi Tel Aviv Win: +150 to +147
• Draw: +240 to +250
• Dinamo Zagreb Win: +175 to +190

Goal markets:

• Over 2.5 Goals: -125
• Under 2.5 Goals: +100

Handicap: Maccabi +0.5 (-310), Dinamo -0.5 (+208)

Same Game Parlay options include Maccabi Win and Over 1.5 (+210). Goalscorer odds: Ion Nicolaescu (+900), Dion Beljo (+1400).

Odds vary by bookmaker; check sites like FanDuel or BetUS for updates.

Betting Tips and Strategies

For Maccabi Tel Aviv vs. Dinamo Zagreb betting tips:

1. Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Yes at -150. Both have scored in recent games, and H2H history supports it.
2. Over 2.5 Goals: A solid pick given Dinamo’s attacking output and Maccabi’s home scoring.
3. Dinamo Zagreb Draw No Bet: At -116, this hedges against a draw while backing the visitors.
4. Player Props: Bet on Sandro Kulenovic anytime goal if he plays, or Dor Peretz assists.
5. Value Bet: Half-Time Draw, Full-Time Dinamo Win (+500 odds potential). Dinamo often grows into games.

Beginner tips: Manage bankroll (1-5% per bet), research thoroughly. Avoid emotional betting; focus on stats like Dinamo’s 68% win rate when leading away.

Tactical Breakdown

Maccabi will likely deploy a 4-3-3, focusing on counter-attacks. Lazetić emphasizes possession (55% average), but against Dinamo’s press, they might cede control.

Dinamo’s 4-2-3-1 allows fluid transitions. Kovacevic’s side excels in wide areas, with full-backs like Sadegh Moharrami overlapping. Expect high pressing from Dinamo to disrupt Maccabi’s build-up.

Set-pieces could decide it: Maccabi scores 30% from them, Dinamo concedes few.

Fan Perspectives and Atmosphere

Though potentially neutral, Maccabi fans are passionate, creating an intense atmosphere. Dinamo travels well, with supporters known for choreography. Social media buzz predicts a thriller, with X posts highlighting Dinamo’s upset potential.

Broader Implications

A win boosts either team’s top-24 chances. For Maccabi, it’s about European credibility; for Dinamo, building on their Fenerbahce scalp.

Conclusion

In this Maccabi Tel Aviv vs. Dinamo Zagreb prediction, we lean toward a narrow Dinamo victory, with over 2.5 goals likely. Odds favor a close contest, and betting tips like BTTS offer value. Stay updated as lineups confirm, and bet responsibly.