Discover the rising clubs making waves in the Europa Conference League 2024/25. From underdog stories to tactical brilliance, here are the teams to watch in Europe’s newest league.

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Europa Conference League: Rising Clubs to Follow

The Europa Conference League may be UEFA’s youngest continental competition, but it has quickly become a hotbed for tactical innovation, underdog narratives, and the rise of ambitious clubs from outside Europe’s traditional elite. In its 2024/25 edition, the tournament has delivered thrilling fixtures, breakout stars, and clubs rewriting their own ACE66 histories.

While the Champions League and Europa League often dominate the spotlight, the Conference League provides a stage for emerging teams to announce themselves to Europe. With fewer financial giants and more evenly matched squads, the competition thrives on grit, strategy, and moments of brilliance.

This article explores the rising clubs in the 2024/25 Conference League campaign—those that are not just competing, but capturing the imagination of fans across the continent.

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1. Maccabi Tel Aviv (Israel)

Why They Stand Out:

Maccabi Tel Aviv have proven they’re more than just consistent domestic champions—they’re becoming European disruptors. Their organized 4-2-3-1 system and sharp counterattacks have helped them secure big results.

Key Strengths:

• Experienced European campaigners

• Disciplined backline and quick transitions

• Emerging Israeli talents backed by veteran leadership

Star Player:

Dan Biton, the midfield maestro, has been pulling strings in the final third.

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2. Ludogorets Razgrad (Bulgaria)

Why They Stand Out:

Ludogorets are no strangers to European football, but this season in the Conference League, they’ve combined youth development with clinical execution. Their pressing game has frustrated better-funded opponents.

Tactical Edge:

• 4-3-3 formation with emphasis on ball progression

• High-energy midfielders closing down passing lanes

• Smart use of overlapping fullbacks

Notable Result:

A hard-fought away win over Partizan Belgrade signaled their intent to go far.

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3. Bodø/Glimt (Norway)

Why They Stand Out:

Already famous for their iconic victory over Roma in previous seasons, Bodø/Glimt are back—younger, faster, and even more tactically astute.

Tactical Approach:

• Intense pressing and quick ball recoveries

• Vertical attacks with wide overloads

• Focus on developing local talent through club philosophy

Young Talent to Watch:

Ola Solbakken has returned to form, tormenting defenses with pace and vision.

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4. Slovan Bratislava (Slovakia)

Why They Stand Out:

Slovan have combined Eastern European resilience with a growing sense of tactical maturity. They’re no longer just defensive specialists—they’re scoring goals for fun this season.

Key Strengths:

• Compact shape with flexibility to shift formations

• Strong aerial presence on set pieces

• Home advantage in Bratislava has been a fortress

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5. KAA Gent (Belgium)

Why They Stand Out:

Gent are building something quietly impressive. Their possession-based football and intelligent buildup play have outclassed several bigger names in the group stage.

Tactical Identity:

• High-possession 4-2-3-1

• Two deep-lying playmakers orchestrating transitions

• Emphasis on overlapping wing play and cutbacks

Star Performer:

Gift Orban, with his instinctive finishing and off-the-ball movement, has become a standout name.

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6. FC Astana (Kazakhstan)

Why They Stand Out:

Astana is putting Central Asian football on the European map. Their defensive discipline and counterattacking flair have stunned opponents from higher-ranked leagues.

Strategy:

• Deep 5-3-2 block transitioning into quick 3-man counters

• Physical duels and aerial dominance

• Reliance on set-piece execution

Wildcard Potential:

If they qualify for the knockouts, few teams will want to travel to Kazakhstan in winter.

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7. Fiorentina (Italy)

Why They Still Count:

After finishing runners-up last year, Fiorentina are determined to go one better. Though not an underdog by pedigree, their continued participation lends the competition legitimacy and quality.

Tactical Edge:

• Vincenzo Italiano’s fluid 4-3-3

• Wide overloads with creative fullbacks

• Heavy emphasis on ball control and zone dominance

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8. Ferencváros (Hungary)

Why They Stand Out:

The Hungarian champions have made significant European strides, using a hybrid system that adapts between possession and reactive play.

Tactical Insights:

• Compact 4-4-2 with pressing triggers

• Quick switch of play via midfield pivots

• Key strength: transition from defense to attack

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What Do These Clubs Have in Common?

Despite coming from different regions, budgets, and football cultures, these rising clubs in the Conference League share key ingredients for success:

These clubs aren’t just showing up—they’re redefining what success looks like in Europe’s third-tier competition.

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The Importance of the Conference League

Some critics downplay the significance of the Conference League, but its value is undeniable:

• Platform for Emerging Talent: Young players gain experience on a European stage.

• Club Growth: Financial and reputational gains from deep runs in the tournament.

• Tactical Development: Exposure to different playing styles from across the continent.

• Fan Engagement: More clubs in more countries getting meaningful European nights.

This competition gives more clubs and more leagues a legitimate chance to shine.

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Final Thoughts

The Europa Conference League is no longer just a “third-tier” competition—it’s a gateway for clubs to make bold statements on the European stage. From tactical evolution to grassroots development, these rising clubs are proving that ambition and identity matter more than budget.

Whether they come from smaller nations or less-known leagues, these teams are writing their own stories—stories that deserve our attention and support.

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Support Every Club, Support Every League

Football is about more than just trophies—it’s about journeys, belief, and growth. As these rising clubs show, every league has a story worth telling.

Support your team. Cheer for the challengers. Celebrate the league.