Stuttgart vs Celtic: prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups – 26 February 2026
One of the return legs of the 2025/26 Europa League play-off knockout round will unfold this Thursday in Stuttgart at the MHP Arena, where the local side, Stuttgart, will host Scottish giants Celtic. After a commanding 4-1 victory in Glasgow, Sebastian Hoeneß’s team has all but secured a place in the next stage, but the ambitious Bhoys will be eager to make some noise on their way out. I suggest betting on goals in this clash.
Match preview
The first leg in Scotland exposed the gulf in class and tempo: the Swabians ruthlessly exploited space and converted their chances – a 4-1 win that essentially settled the tie. However, in the Bundesliga, Hoeneß’s men have shown some vulnerability: a defeat to St. Pauli (1-2) and a draw with bottom side Heidenheim (3-3) point to an imperfect balance, though their Champions League spot remains intact for now.
At home, Stuttgart are rock solid: just two defeats in 16 official matches at the MHP Arena this season, both at the hands of Bayern Munich. They’ve seen off Feyenoord (2-0), Celta (2-1), Eintracht (3-2), and even managed to hold powerhouse Hoffenheim to a goalless draw. Even a potential absence of Stiller doesn’t look critical with a comfortable three-goal cushion.
Under Martin O’Neill, the Bhoys have improved the quality of their football, securing 15 wins in 20 matches, but their most painful defeats have come in the big games. A 1-2 loss in the Old Firm derby, a 1-4 thrashing by Stuttgart, and a recent stumble against Hibernian (1-2) have seriously complicated their Scottish title chase. Against this backdrop, the return leg in Germany becomes more of a test of character than a battle for progression.
Another issue is their defensive instability away from home: Celtic have conceded at least twice in seven of their last nine away games. Even a change in the coaching staff hasn’t solved their reliability woes – in their last three road matches, they’ve shipped two goals each time. Once again, hopes rest on Nygren, who has been directly involved in goals in his last three outings, but up against such an aggressive opponent, that may not be enough.
Probable lineups
- Stuttgart: Nübel; Hendricks, Chabot, Jelc, Vagnoman; Andres, Karazor; Leveling, Undav, El-Hannous; Demirovic.
- Celtic: Schmeichel; Araujo, Trusty, Scales, Tierney; Oxlade-Chamberlain, McGregor, Bernardo; Maeda, Nygren, Tunechti.
Match facts and head-to-head
- In the first match, Stuttgart thrashed Celtic 4-1 away, effectively ending the intrigue.
- Stuttgart have lost just two of their 16 home games this season, both times to Bayern Munich.
- Celtic have conceded at least twice in seven of their last nine away fixtures.
Prediction
Despite a comfortable cushion, Stuttgart are unlikely to sit back – Hoeneß’s philosophy is all about pressing and attacking football. Celtic will have to open up, and with their vulnerable defense, it’s an ideal scenario for the hosts. I expect a high-scoring game and another home victory for the Swabians.
