One of the eighth-round Europa League matches will be played on Thursday at Belgrade’s Rajko Mitić Stadium, where Crvena Zvezda will take on Spanish side Celta. Here is a betting tip for this game, with good odds for a win.
See also: Basel vs Viktoria Plzeň: Basel Look to Keep Their Europa League Hope Alive
Crvena Zvezda vs Celta: Match Preview
Crvena Zvezda have already benefited from their recent performance, earning an important win over Malmö and securing a place in the playoffs. Beating Celta at home could send them directly to the Round of 16 if other results go their way. This match is a chance to finish the group stage positively and deliver exciting attacking football to the fans.
The team has focused on building play around their two strikers, trusting Arnautović and Kostov to lead the attack. Kostov was the standout player in the last round, while the defence, consisting of Tiknizyan, Veljković, and Sol Yong-Woo, remains important. The challenge will be maintaining balance between attacking risk and defensive stability against Celta.
Celta come into this match after a defeat to Real Sociedad, which ended their strong run in 2026. They have been productive but have struggled defensively in the Europa League. Even after a vital win against Lille in the previous round, they have conceded after the break in three matches and have not shown consistent defensive stability.
Celta will also miss several key players—Svedberg and Sotelo are suspended, and Manu Fernandez is doubtful. Fer Lopez may strengthen their attack, but the team’s overall organisation is affected. Facing a strong home side will be a difficult test for them.
Probable Lineups
- Crvena Zvezda: Mateus, Tiknizyan, Rodrigão, Veljković, Yong-Woo, Elšnik, Krunić, Kostov, Ivanić, Katai, Arnautović
- Celta: Radu, Dominguez, Starfelt, Alonso, Carreira, Roman, Moriba, Mingueza, Aspas, Iglesias, Zaragoza
Prediction
Crvena Zvezda are motivated and have an aggressive attacking style. Celta’s defensive issues and missing players make them vulnerable, giving the home side a strong chance to win.
Home to win Either Half
