Crvena Zvezda vs Celta: prediction, head-to-head and probable line-ups – 29 January 2026
One of the eighth round fixtures of the Europa League's general stage will take place on Thursday at the Rajko Mitić Stadium in Belgrade, where Crvena Zvezda will host Spanish side Celta. I’m offering a bet on the outcome of this clash with good odds for a win.
Match preview
The return of Dejan Stanković to the Crvena Zvezda dugout has already paid dividends: the team secured a crucial victory over Malmö and guaranteed themselves a spot in the playoffs. But the Serbs are not stopping there—beating Celta could send them straight to the round of 16, provided their rivals slip up. This home fixture against the Spaniards is a chance to wrap up the group stage on a high note and thrill the fans with aggressive attacking football.
Stanković immediately began building play around two strikers, trusting Arnautović and the promising Kostov to start, making the team more direct and dangerous up front. The young Vasilije Kostov was the hero of the last round, while the stable back line featuring Tiknizyan, Veljković, and Sol Yong-Woo remains a key component of the tactical setup. The only question is whether the team can maintain the balance between risk and reliability against a mobile Celta side.
Celta arrive in Belgrade after a defeat to Real Sociedad, which ended their impressive run in 2026. Carvalhal’s team looks focused and productive, but they’ve struggled defensively in the Europa League. Despite a vital win over Lille in the previous round, Celta have conceded after the break in three separate matches and can’t boast defensive stability.
On top of that, the Vigo side will be without several key starters—Svedberg and Sotelo are suspended, and Manu Fernandez is doubtful. Fer Lopez, back from Spain, could boost the attack, but overall game organization suffers under these circumstances. The pressure from the Serbian stands and the need to contain the hosts’ attacking surge will be a serious test for the visitors.
Probable line-ups
- 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
Match facts and head-to-head
- In their last three home Europa League matches, Crvena Zvezda have always scored after the break.
- Celta have conceded at least once in four of their last six Europa League away games.
- The Serbs could make the top eight if they beat Celta and other results go their way.
Prediction
Crvena Zvezda are fired up for maximum results and, under Stanković, are already displaying an aggressive attacking style. Celta have defensive issues and personnel shortages, which could prove decisive.
