Match Preview

The UEFA Europa League 2025/26 – League Phase, Round 6 clash between Celta Vigo and Bologna at Estadio Abanca-Balaídos brings together two sides sitting right in the thick of the battle for knockout seeding. Celta arrive on 9 points from their first five league-phase games, while Bologna have collected 8 points, making this a direct duel between near neighbours in the overall table.

Celta Vigo have enjoyed a strong European campaign so far, with three wins from five matches and a positive goal difference. Their attacking play has been fluid, built around quick combinations, intelligent movement between the lines and the creativity of their forwards. They like to dominate the ball at home, using full-backs high up the pitch and switching play to stretch opponents. However, defensive lapses and moments of fragility at set pieces remain a concern.

Bologna have adapted impressively to Europa League football. Unbeaten in their last four league-phase outings, they have combined a compact defensive block with sharp, vertical attacking transitions. The Italian side are comfortable sitting slightly deeper, inviting pressure and then breaking quickly through their wide players and mobile strikers. In possession, they can also build patiently, using short passing to progress through midfield before releasing forwards into the channels.

The tactical battle in Vigo is likely to revolve around whether Celta can translate their territorial advantage into clear chances without exposing themselves to Bologna’s counter-attacks. If Celta’s midfield can control tempo and protect the space in front of their defence, the hosts will fancy their chances. Bologna, meanwhile, will look to stay organised between the lines, frustrate Celta’s creative players and strike whenever turnovers occur in midfield.

With both teams aiming to secure the best possible position in the overall league-phase standings – Celta currently hovering around the top 10 and Bologna just behind them – this is far from a relaxed final-day fixture. Expect a high-intensity encounter, with plenty of tactical detail and fine margins potentially deciding the outcome.

TV Broadcast and Livestreams

The Celta Vigo vs Bologna showdown will be available via several official Europa League broadcast partners. In Spain, coverage is expected on Movistar+ or associated platforms, while many European territories can watch through services such as DAZN or TNT Sports. International audiences may have access via beIN Sports, Paramount+ or other regional rights holders. Supporters should check local TV listings and official UEFA broadcast guides to confirm exact channels and streaming options in their country.

Match Information

Odds (1X2)

Pre-match markets make Celta Vigo slight favourites. Their home advantage and three wins from five Europa League league-phase games are reflected in the shorter price for a home victory. Bologna are rated as dangerous underdogs, with their solid form and resilience away from home keeping the odds relatively tight. The draw is seen as a plausible outcome, particularly given how close the teams are in the overall standings.

Bettors may also consider alternative markets such as Both Teams to Score, Over 2.0 or Over 2.5 total goals, or insurance options like Celta Vigo Draw No Bet or Bologna +1 handicap, depending on their view of how open the match will be.

*Odds are indicative and can vary between bookmakers. Always verify live prices before placing any bets.

Form and Head-to-Head

Celta Vigo form: Celta’s Europa League run has been highly respectable, with 3 wins and 2 defeats from their opening five league-phase fixtures. They have scored frequently and hold a positive goal difference, but remain prone to conceding in key moments. Their domestic form at Balaídos has been more mixed, yet in Europe they have often found an extra gear in front of their home supporters.

Bologna form: Bologna have shown they belong at this level. With 2 wins and 2 draws in their first five league-phase games, they have lost just once and carry a positive goal difference. Their performances have been built on solid organisation, disciplined pressing and efficient use of chances. In Serie A they have also held their own against strong opposition, suggesting a side full of belief and tactical clarity.

Head-to-Head: Competitive clashes between Celta Vigo and Bologna in European competitions are rare, which adds a sense of freshness to this encounter. With no deep historical rivalry to draw upon, the focus falls squarely on current form, strategic choices and which team handles the pressure of a decisive league-phase fixture better on the night.

Standings Context (Europa League League Phase)

The combined Europa League league-phase table underlines how tight the race is around the middle of the rankings. Celta Vigo occupy a spot just inside the top ten, thanks to their three victories and healthy goal difference. Bologna sit a little further back but remain well positioned inside the top 24, with a strong chance of reaching the knockout play-offs.

A win for Celta would consolidate their push for a higher seeding and potentially give them an outside shot at the top-eight positions. A Bologna victory, on the other hand, could see them leapfrog the Spanish side and climb several places in the table, improving their prospects for the knockout draw. Even a draw would keep both clubs in the qualification mix, but might leave them more vulnerable to movements elsewhere in the standings.

*Positions and statistics refer to the league-phase situation after five rounds.

Prediction

Final Score Prediction: Celta Vigo 2–1 Bologna

Prediction: On balance, Celta Vigo look slightly better placed to edge this contest. Their attacking quality, combined with the backing of the Balaídos crowd, should allow them to create a steady stream of chances. If they can tighten up on defensive set pieces and avoid cheap turnovers in their own half, Celta have enough firepower to win.

Bologna will not make it easy. Their compact defensive structure and dangerous counters mean they are well-equipped to punish any Celta mistakes, and a goal for the Italian side – perhaps on the break or from a well-worked move down the flank – feels likely. Over 90 minutes, however, Celta’s slightly greater attacking depth and home advantage may prove decisive.

Projected result: Celta Vigo 2–1 Bologna. For those looking at the betting markets, options such as Home Win, Both Teams to Score and moderate goal lines like Over 2.0 or Over 2.5 total goals broadly align with this outlook for what should be a high-quality, finely balanced Europa League encounter.