Match Preview
The tie between VfB Stuttgart and Celtic reaches its decisive moment in Germany as they meet for the second leg of the UEFA Europa League Knockout Round Play-offs. With the pressure rising and the margins getting thinner, expect a night shaped by game management, momentum swings, and the kind of late drama that often decides European knockouts.
Stuttgart have the advantage of finishing the tie at home at the MHPArena. That matters. Home second legs often come with a clear plan: start with intensity, push the opponent back, and force mistakes through aggressive pressing and quick attacks into the final third. If Stuttgart can win the midfield duel and keep Celtic defending in long phases, the chances will come.
Celtic, meanwhile, travel knowing that European away legs are often about emotional control. They’ll want to stay compact, avoid giving Stuttgart easy transition moments, and choose the right time to break forward. If Celtic can survive the early push and keep the scoreline under control, the pressure can shift back onto the hosts as the clock runs down.
The key battle will likely be the space between midfield and defence. Stuttgart will try to play at speed and attack the half-spaces, while Celtic will aim to protect central lanes and force attacks wide. Set pieces can also be a major factor in a second leg corners and wide free kicks often become the cleanest route to goal when open play gets tense.
Expect this to open up late if the tie stays close. Second legs rarely stay quiet for 90 minutes. One goal can flip everything.
TV Broadcast and Livestreams
Broadcast rights differ by country. Check your local sports channels or streaming providers on matchday for the official listing in your region.
Match Information
| Date | 26 February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Kick-off Time | 20:00 CET (19:00 GMT) |
| Venue | MHPArena, Stuttgart, Germany |
| Competition | UEFA Europa League 2025/26 – Knockout Round Play-offs (2nd Leg) |
Stadium and fixture listing: Stuttgart vs Celtic (26/02/2026). :
Odds (1X2)
| Result | Odds |
|---|---|
| 1 VfB Stuttgart | N/A |
| X Draw | N/A |
| 2 Celtic | N/A |
Odds note: Second-leg prices can move sharply depending on the first-leg result, team news, and late market action. Re-check your bookmaker close to kick-off for the most accurate odds.
Form and Head-to-Head
| Team | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| VfB Stuttgart | High-tempo spells at home, direct attacking runs, and strong pressure when they turn the match into a physical duel. |
| Celtic | Compact structure away from home, looking to stay calm under pressure and strike with quick breaks when space appears. |
Tie context: The play-off legs are scheduled for 19 February 2026 (Glasgow) and 26 February 2026 (Stuttgart).
Key Tactical Notes
- Stuttgart’s key: start fast, win second balls, and force Celtic into long defending phases at the MHPArena.
- Celtic’s key: stay compact, avoid cheap turnovers, and look for a decisive away moment on the counter.
- Set pieces: second legs often swing on corners/free kicks when open-play chances are limited.
- Late-game risk: if the tie remains tight after 60–70 minutes, expect more space and higher tempo.
Prediction
Final Score Prediction: VfB Stuttgart 2-1 Celtic
Prediction: Stuttgart’s home advantage and intensity in the second leg should create enough chances to edge a narrow win, but Celtic have the tools to score and keep this competitive. Expect a tense match that stays alive deep into the second half.
Suggested lean: Stuttgart draw no bet • Over 1.5 goals • Both teams to score (smaller stake)