Following their victories in both matches of the third qualifying round against Slovan Bratislava, Maccabi Haifa is just one hurdle away from rejoining the Champions League group stage.

Last season, in a group that also included giants like Paris Saint-Germain and Benfica, the Israeli team had a rollercoaster experience in Group H. They suffered heavy defeats with scores of 7-2 and 6-1 but also made a historic mark by defeating Juventus. Having savored the pinnacle of European competition, they are eager to secure another spot in the group stages this autumn.

Embarking on their Champions League journey, Messay Dego's squad effortlessly defeated the tournament debutants Hamrun Spartans. They then advanced past the Moldovan champions, Sheriff, and subsequently Slovan Bratislava in the subsequent stages.

Contributions in the form of goals from Frantzdy Pierrot and Dia Saba in both games against Slovan played a pivotal role. This culminated in a 5-2 aggregate victory for Haifa, propelling them into the playoff round.

While their domestic season is in full swing, Young Boys are yet to play in the Champions League this summer, with their inaugural match set for Sammy Ofer Stadium.

The team from Bern is now led by Raphael Wicky, previously at the helm of Chicago Fire. Two years ago, they placed fourth in Champions League Group F, lagging behind Atalanta BC, Villarreal, and Manchester United. Additionally, they were knocked out of the Europa Conference League playoffs by Anderlecht the previous year.

Clinching their 16th league title and the fifth in the past six seasons, the Swiss champions dominated the Super League in the recent term. Four rounds into the 2023-24 season, they remain undefeated with two wins and two draws.

In their latest match, Young Boys clinched a victory over Breitenrain, advancing to the subsequent round of the Swiss Cup. This convincing 5-0 win featured goals from the familiar duo, Cedric Itten and Jean-Pierre Nsame.

Maccabi Haifa has recently strengthened their lineup with the acquisition of ex-Lille midfielder, Show, for the playoff stage. However, a customary starting XI is anticipated at Sammy Ofer Stadium this Wednesday.

The defense of the hosts is led by Israeli international Sean Goldberg. The midfield boasts talents like Ali Mohamed, Mahmoud Jaber, and skipper Tjaronn Chery, who contributed three assists in the second leg against Slovan Bratislava. In the offensive department, the duo of Frantzdy Pierrot and Dia Saba spearhead Haifa's charge. Seasoned playmaker Lior Refaelov, who recently re-joined the Greens after an extended stint in Belgium, offers an additional option for Messay Dego from the sidelines.

On the other hand, Young Boys had a subdued transfer window this summer. Saidy Janko's comeback to Switzerland stands out as a significant move, whereas key defender Cedric Zesiger transferred to Wolfsburg.

There are reservations regarding the inclusion of Sandro Lauper and goalie David von Ballmoos in the visiting squad due to recent knee injuries. However, both are back in training, and von Ballmoos even featured in the previous week's Swiss Cup game.

In the attacking zone, Jean-Pierre Nsame, after his impactful substitute appearance and brace against Breitenrain, is expected to partner with former Rangers forward Cedric Itten.