Former Champions League regulars PSV Eindhoven and Galatasaray face in the second qualifying round on Wednesday after becoming runners-up in their respective domestic divisions last season.
The two meet at the Philips Stadion in probably the most high-profile encounter of the round, with the winner set to face either Celtic or Midtjylland in the third round in August.
Though many PSV supporters have been preoccupied for the past several weeks with their club's failing efforts to retain two key members of the Netherlands' Euro 2020 team, the time has come for the Eindhoven side to begin their European campaign this year.
While the immediate fates of formidable full-back Denzel Dumfries and former Arsenal academy prospect Donyell Malen remain in doubt, coach Roger Schmidt must focus thoughts on a return to competitive play after a string of easy wins.
Between 2015 and 2018, the 1988 European champions reached at least the group stage three times, but they have not returned to Europe's top table since. PSV, who has been more acclimated to life in the Europa League in recent years, will be keen to make the most of home advantage on Wednesday in order to escape that fate this year.
Galatasaray's recent absence from the Champions League has coincided with the emergence of behind-closed-doors games throughout the world, as one of the continent's most raucously supported sides.
They finished second in the Super Lig last season, trailing fierce rivals Besiktas only on goal difference, and come into this week's away match with a pair of pre-season triumphs. Gala's most recent practice match was called off in contentious circumstances last Tuesday, despite previous victories over Dinamo Bucharest and Kasimpasa.
Currently connected with a slew of transfer targets from around Europe, Galatasaray's progress toward a Champions League comeback this week may improve the club's reputation as an attractive destination for ambitious players globally.
The hosts have won four of their last six encounters with Galatasaray, with no draws - a pattern that looks poised to continue this time around.
PSV Eindhoven possible starting lineup:
Drommel; Mwene, Ramalho, Boscagli, Max; Van Ginkel, Sangare; Madueke, Gotze, Vertessen; Zahavi.
Galatasaray possible starting lineup:
Balaban; Yedlin, Luyindama, Ozturk, Bayram; Kara; Feghouli, Kilinc, Turan, Babel; Caglayan
Prediction: We predict over 1.5 goals in this match.
Tip: 1.5 Over
