Celta Vigo vs Lyon prediction, H2H and probable lineups — March 12, 2026
The first leg of the UEFA Europa League Round of 16 will feature a showdown between Celta and Lyon. The match is set to take place in Vigo on Thursday, March 12, with kick-off scheduled for 21:00 Central European Time. I’m going with a bet focused on the scoring potential of this encounter.
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Match preview
Celta have been enjoying a steady 2025/26 campaign and are firmly in the race for European competition spots in the La Liga table. Ahead of the Lyon clash, the team is boasting strong home form: in their last ten outings at Balaídos, Celta have claimed six wins and suffered four defeats, including a recent loss to Real Madrid.
Their latest La Liga fixtures have been particularly prolific. Giráldez’s men saw off Mallorca and Girona, only losing to Los Blancos in stoppage time. This underlines the team’s ability to create scoring opportunities and control the game.
In the Europa League, Celta have also looked convincing. They advanced through the group stage by netting 15 goals in 8 matches, though defensive consistency remains an issue, having conceded 11 times.
The team relies on combination play and active use of the flanks. Veterans like Iago Aspas can influence the outcome, creating chances for teammates and making the most of opportunities in front of goal. It’s also worth noting that Celta beat Greek side PAOK twice in the Round of 32.
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Lyon enter the tie as slight favorites, showing consistent form both in Ligue 1 and in European competition. This season, they’ve displayed dynamic attacking football and rarely leave the pitch without finding the net.
Their recent Ligue 1 matches have been especially impressive. Against Marseille and Lens, Lyon showcased their attacking prowess, scoring twice in each match, though defensive lapses persisted. These results suggest Lyon approach the Celta clash with defensive issues but significant attacking potential.
In the Europa League, Lyon topped their group with 21 points and were the tournament’s highest scorers. The side demonstrated organized midfield play, dictating tempo and taking advantage of rapid transitions from defense to attack.
The real revelation has been Real Madrid loanee Endrick. The Brazilian striker has already notched 5 goals and 4 assists in 10 appearances, establishing himself as the true leader of Les Gones.
Match facts
- Celta have won four of their last five matches.
- Lyon are winless in their last four outings.
- Celta average 1.4 goals per home game, while Lyon average 1.6 goals per away match.
Probable lineups
- Celta Vigo: Radu, Rodriguez, Starfelt, Alonso, Mingueza, Carreira, Roman, Moriba, Swedberg, Jutglà, Iglesias.
- Lyon: Greif, Hateboer, Mata, Niahate, Tagliafico, Morton, Tessmann, Tolisso, Karabec, Endrick, Yaremchuk.
H2H
The teams have never met each other in an official match before.
Prediction
This match promises to be tense and even. Celta will look to leverage home advantage and quick counterattacks, while Lyon will aim to control possession and cut down on defensive errors. My bet is on under 3 total goals.
