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Match preview
When both began their continental adventures six weeks ago, both were expecting to be in a group stage of some kind.
However, one will fall in the final round of qualification.
Maribor are the record 16-times Slovenian PrvaLiga champions, reclaiming the title for the first time in three years last season.
In Europe, the Purples have featured in six group stages, although the most recent of those came in the Champions League in 2017.
This season, Maribor began by beating Shakhtyor Soligorsk, but have since lost back-to-back ties at the hands of FC Sheriff and HJK.
Now in the third-tier competition, there are no more second chances with this a do-or-die clash.
In fact, the Railwaymen have featured in a group stage in each of the last three season, including in this competition 12 months ago.
Despite their pedigree, Dan Petrescu’s team fell at the first hurdle of Champions League qualifying, beaten on penalties by Pyunik.
Nevertheless, Cluj have subsequently got back on track, eliminating both Inter Club d’Escaldes and the aforementioned Shakhtyor Soligorsk.
Jefté Betancor with the only goal across both legs against the Belorussian champions.
This tie could go down to the wire, so will Maribor be traveling to Transylvania with a first leg lead after the first leg at Stadion Ljudski vrt?
