Europa League Predictions & Analysis

This article provides daily Europa League predictions and analysis for matches played on 29 January 2026, marking the final round (Matchday 8) of the 2025–26 league phase. With qualification spots and final standings on the line, motivation levels, tactical plans, and squad rotation can change quickly depending on what each team needs from the result.

The analysis below focuses on recent form, team news, and match context to highlight the most relevant betting insights for each fixture scheduled on this date.

Aston Villa vs Salzburg

Aston Villa is in 2nd place with 18 points and has a clear goal to maintain their top position in the final round. Salzburg is in 28th place with 6 points and has no real chance of qualifying, but they are motivated to improve their performance.

Aston Villa has a clear advantage in quality, form, and home field, while Salzburg will look for chances through speed and transitions. The home team is expected to dominate by controlling the pace of the game throughout the match.

1 (Aston Villa to Win)

Predicted CS: 2:0

Basel vs Plzen

Basel is in 27th place with 6 points and has no real chance of advancing, but they are motivated to improve their European image in the last round. Plzen is in 17th place with 11 points and still has a chance to improve their ranking with a positive result.

Basel will try to take the initiative at home, but Plzen seems more consistent and tactically organized. A close match with few chances is expected, and we don’t anticipate the guests leaving this match without any points.

X2 (Draw or Plzen to Win)

Predicted CS: 1:1

Betis vs Feyenoord

Betis is currently in 8th place with 14 points and is in a great position before the last round. After playing 7 matches, they have 4 wins, 2 draws, and only 1 loss, with a goal difference of 11:6 and a solid, though not perfect, form in the recent rounds.

Offensively, Betis looks diverse and effective, with good ball circulation and the ability to create chances from various positions. Antony, Ayoze Perez, and Bakambu are key players in the attack and are the main sources of offensive threat. At home, they play more organized, with greater confidence and control over the pace of the game. Their style of play is technical and possession-oriented, with a patient build-up of attacks and moderate risk in defense.

Feyenoord is currently in 26th place with only 6 points and no real chances to advance further. After playing 7 matches, they have two wins and five losses, with no draws, and a goal difference of 10:13, showing a clear negative trend in their results.

Offensively, the team shows moments of individual skill, but lacks consistency and enough support from the midfield, while defensively they often seem vulnerable, especially during quick counterattacks and set pieces. Hadj Moussa, Borges, and Larin are among the few scorers, but their performance isn’t enough to make up for the weak team balance. When playing away, they appear insecure and frequently lose focus. Their style of play is more offensive, but without a solid defensive structure, leading to a high number of goals conceded.

Betis has clear motivation, better form, and a stronger home performance, while Feyenoord enters the match feeling relaxed but also unstable. Control and initiative are expected from the home team.

1 (Betis to Win)

Predicted CS: 2:1

Celtic vs Utrecht

Celtic is currently in 24th place with 8 points and still has a slight chance to improve their position in the final round. After playing 7 matches, they have two wins, two draws, and three losses, with a goal difference of 9:13 and inconsistent form, but they have positive momentum in home games.

Offensively, Celtic shows solid dynamics and aggression, with the ability to create chances through the wings and quick attacks, but their finishing isn’t always at the desired level. Defensively, they can be vulnerable, especially during fast transitions. Hatate, Kyogo, and Nygren are the main drivers of their offensive push. At home, they play with high intensity and strong support from the fans. Their style is direct and energetic, featuring high pressing and a fast pace.

Utrecht is in 34th place with just one point and no chance of moving on to the next round. After playing 7 matches, they have one draw and 6 losses, with a poor goal difference of 3:11 and a series of negative results.

Offensively, the team struggles with creating chances and finishing, producing very few opportunities per game. Defensively, they often crumble under pressure and make individual mistakes, especially when playing away. Rodriguez and van der Hoorn are among the few who have contributed with goals, but they lack consistent support. When playing away, they appear insecure and tend to play defensively. Their style is focused on defense, trying to counterattack, but they are not very effective at it.

Celtic has more motivation, a better home record, and a clearer offensive plan, while Utrecht seems demotivated and vulnerable when playing away. The home team is expected to take the initiative and apply pressure.

1 & T1 2+ (Celtic to Win & Over1.5)

Predicted CS: 2:0

Crvena zvezda vs Celta Vigo

Crvena zvezda is currently in 11th place with 13 points earned and has a real chance to secure their position in the last round. After playing 7 matches, they have 4 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses, with a goal difference of 6:5 and a steady form, winning in crucial moments.

Offensively, they are not among the most effective teams, but they play smart and know how to punish any mistakes, while defensively they are compact and disciplined. Arnautović, Kostić, and Bruno Duarte are their most effective attackers and the main sources of goals. At home, they play with high intensity, strong dueling, and great support from the fans. Their style is balanced, focusing on control, physical play, and organized defense.

Celta Vigo is currently in 14th place with 12 points and has little room for improvement in the standings. After 7 matches, they have 4 wins and 3 losses, with no draws, and a goal difference of 14:10, showing a solid performance in recent games.

Offensively, Celta plays very openly and effectively, with quick ball movement and creativity from their skilled players, but defensively they often leave gaps and concede goals during transitions. Duran, Aspas, and Swedberg are key offensive players and the driving force of the team. When playing away, they tend to be brave, but their concentration can fluctuate. Their style is offensively oriented, with a high tempo and some risk in their defensive setup.

Crvena zvezda will rely on discipline and strong home performance, while Celta will look to impose their game through possession and offense. A tactical battle is expected, with moments of pressure from both sides.

1X (Crvena zvezda to Win or Draw)

Predicted CS: 1:1

FC Porto vs Rangers

FC Porto is currently in 9th place with 14 points and they are really motivated to win and move up the table in the last round. Rangers are in 32nd place with only 4 points and they don’t have a real chance to advance further.

FC Porto has a clear advantage in quality, motivation, and home performance, while Rangers come in without any pressure from results, but also lacking stability. Full control is expected from the home team.

1 (FC Porto to Win)

Predicted CS: 2:0

FCSB vs Fenerbahce

FCSB is currently in 29th place with 6 points and no real chance of advancing, but they are motivated to improve their performance in the last round. After playing 7 matches, they have two wins and five losses, with no draws, and a goal difference of 8:15, showing weak consistency in their results.

Offensively, they create a limited number of chances and often rely on individual efforts, while defensively, they frequently leave space, especially against stronger opponents. Birligea, Miculescu, and Ngezana are among the few scorers in their European campaign. At home, they tend to play more engaged and stronger, with greater energy and fighting spirit. Their style of play is direct and physical, attempting quick attacks, but lacking enough tactical stability.

Fenerbahce is currently in 18th place with 11 points and still has room to improve their position on the table. After playing 7 matches, they have three wins, two draws, and two losses, with a goal difference of 9:6 and a relatively stable form.

Offensively, they have a significantly higher quality and creativity, able to dominate through the middle and wing positions, while defensively they are generally organized, although they can be vulnerable when playing away. Talisca, Akturkoglu, and Szymanski are key players and the main sources of goals and assists. When playing away, they tend to be more cautious, focusing more on control. Their style is technical and offensively oriented, with high possession and structured attacks.

FCSB will try to play aggressively in front of their home crowd, but the difference in quality and offensive power is on Fenerbahce’s side. A controlled performance from the guests is expected, taking advantage of the opponents’ mistakes.

2 (Fenerbahce to Win)

Predicted CS: 1:2

G.A. Eagles vs Braga

G.A. Eagles are in 30th place with 6 points and no real chance of advancing, but they are motivated to make a better impression in the last round. Braga is in 5th place with 16 points and has a clear goal to secure their spot among the top 8 in the group.

G.A. Eagles will try to defend and slow down the game, while Braga has a clear advantage in quality, organization, and motivation. A controlled performance from the guests and gradual pressure is expected.

2 (Braga to Win)

Predicted CS: 0:2

Genk vs Malmo FF

Genk is in 10th place with 13 points and has a real chance to improve their ranking with a win in the last round. Malmo FF is in 35th place with only one point and has no chance of advancing to the next stage.

Genk clearly has the advantage in quality, form, and motivation, while Malmo comes in without any pressure to perform, but also lacks stability. A controlled match is expected with the home team dominating.

1 (Genk to Win)

Predicted CS: 2:0

Lille vs Freiburg

Lille is currently in 21st place with 9 points and still has a chance to improve their position in the final round with a good result. After playing 7 matches, they have 3 wins and 4 losses, with no draws, and a goal difference of 11:9. Their form has been unstable, especially in recent games where the results have varied.

Offensively, Lille has solid individual talent and can be dangerous when they find space, but they often struggle with consistency and finishing. Igamane, Andre, and Giroud are key offensive players. At home, they play more aggressively and with greater confidence. Their style is direct and physical, with attempts at quick attacks and play through the wings.

Freiburg is currently in 3rd place with 17 points earned and has already secured a spot, but they are motivated to achieve the highest possible ranking in the group. After 7 matches, they have five wins and two draws, remaining unbeaten, with a goal difference of 10:3 and showing excellent form.

Offensively, they play in an organized and efficient manner, taking minimal risks, while defensively, they are among the most stable teams in the group stage. Grifo, Suzuki, and Adamu are the most dangerous players in the final third and are key to their attacking play. When playing away, they perform with discipline and tactical maturity. Their style of play is balanced, featuring a strong team structure, control of the pace, and a focus on minimizing mistakes.

Lille will try to impose their tempo at home, but Freiburg appears more complete and stable across all lines. A tactical match is expected, with at least one goal from both sides.

GG (BTTS-Yes)

Predicted CS: 1:1

Ludogorets vs Nice

Ludogorets is currently in 25th place with 7 points and very little chance of improving their ranking in the final round. After playing 7 matches, they have two wins, one draw, and four losses, with a goal difference of 11:15 and inconsistent performance, showing better results at home.

They can be quite effective offensively, especially with individual talent and quick plays, but defensively they often leave gaps and concede goals under pressure. Stanic is the main offensive threat and their top scorer, while Verdon and Bile contribute from the sidelines. At home, they play more aggressively and with greater confidence. Their style of play is direct, focusing on fast attacks and physical play, but they struggle with a stable defensive balance.

Nice is currently in 33rd place with only three points and no chances of moving forward. After playing 7 matches, they have one win and 6 losses, with no draws, and a goal difference of 7:14, showing a series of poor results, especially when playing away.

Offensively, the team struggles to be effective and has a hard time creating clear chances, while defensively, they often crack under continuous pressure and make individual mistakes. Carlos, Gouveia, and Cho are among the few who have contributed with goals, but they lack enough support from the rest of the team. They play away from home with uncertainty and low confidence. Their style of play is reactive and defensive, trying to counterattack, but with limited organization.

Ludogorets will be looking to take the initiative and win in front of their home crowd, while Nice enters the game feeling both relaxed and unstable as guests. A lot of pressure is expected from the home team, and a win could lead them to the next stage.

1 (Ludogorets to Win)

Predicted CS: 2:1

Lyon vs PAOK

Lyon is in first place with 18 points, and the only question is whether they will keep their top spot on the table and want to confirm their dominance in the last round. PAOK is in 12th place with 12 points and has a real chance to improve their ranking with a positive result.

Lyon will control the game and the pace, while PAOK will try to stay compact and dangerous on the counterattack. The quality and home advantage are on Lyon’s side.

1 (Lyon to Win)

Predicted CS: 2:1

Maccabi Tel Aviv vs Bologna

Maccabi Tel Aviv is currently in 36th place with just one point and no chance of moving forward. Bologna is in 15th place with 12 points and has a real opportunity to improve their standing on the table with a win.

The difference in form, quality, and motivation is clearly in favor of Bologna, while Maccabi Tel Aviv enters the match without any momentum and facing serious structural issues. We expect the guests to win, and it should be an exciting game with at least three goals.

3+ (Over 2.5)

Predicted CS: 1:2

Midtjylland vs Din. Zagreb

Midtjylland is currently in 4th place with 16 points and has a clear motivation to secure their spot among the best in the group. After playing 7 matches, they have achieved five wins, one draw, and one loss, boasting an impressive goal difference of 16:8 and maintaining a solid form throughout the group stage.

Offensively, the team is one of the most effective, with quick transitions and high intensity, while defensively they are generally strong, although they sometimes leave space during high pressing. Key offensive players like Erlic, Gulda Dju, and Diao are crucial and are the main contributors to their goals. At home, Midtjylland plays very confidently, achieving maximum performance and maintaining a high tempo. Their style of play is physical, direct, and aggressive, focusing on duels and fast attacks.

Dinamo Zagreb is currently in 20th place with 10 points and needs a positive result to improve their standing. After playing 7 matches, they have three wins, one draw, and three losses, with a goal difference of 12:14, showing a bit of unstable form.

Offensively, they have individual talent and can be dangerous in the final third, but defensively they often seem vulnerable, especially when playing away. Beljo, Bakrar, and Ljubicic are key players in attack and are the most frequent sources of threat. When playing away, their performance varies, and they sometimes lose focus. Their style of play is technical and offensive-oriented, but they lack enough defensive balance.

Midtjylland will push for a high tempo and physical dominance, while Dinamo will try to respond with possession and individual skill. We expect an exciting match with at least three goals scored during the game.

3+ (Over 2.5)

Predicted CS: 2:2

Nottingham vs Ferencvaros

Nottingham Forest is currently in 16th place with 11 points and has a real chance to improve their position with a positive result in the final round. Ferencvaros is in 7th place with 15 points and has already secured their spot, but they are motivated to stay among the top 8 on the table.

Nottingham will try to set the pace at home, while Ferencvaros will look for control and stability. A tactical match is expected with a careful approach from both sides and at least one goal from each team.

X (Draw)

Predicted CS: 1:1

Panathinaikos vs AS Roma

Panathinaikos is currently in 19th place with 11 points and will try to improve their position in the last round with a good result. After playing 7 matches, they have three wins, two draws, and two losses, with a goal difference of 10:8 and a somewhat inconsistent form.

Offensively, the team looks organized and effective when they have space, with good finishing from the attackers. Defensively, they are generally stable, but they can crack under strong pressure. Zoury, Swiderski, and Calabria are key offensive players and the most frequent scorers. At home, Panathinaikos plays more solidly and with greater discipline, taking advantage of the support from the fans. Their style of play is balanced, focusing on tactical setup and controlled pace.

AS Roma is currently in 6th place with 15 points and is already in a secure position for qualification, but they are motivated to win for a better ranking. After playing 7 matches, they have five wins and two losses, with no draws, and an impressive goal difference of 12:5, showing consistently strong form.

Offensively, Roma has quality and depth, capable of winning matches through individual skills and quick combinations, while defensively they play compactly and with experience. Malen, Ferguson, and Pisilli are the most effective in attack and are the main contributors to the offensive play. When playing away, they are confident and stable in their results. Their style is pragmatic and efficient, focusing on controlling the midfield and quick finishes.

Panathinaikos will rely on discipline and home strength, while Roma has a clear advantage in quality and experience. A tactical match is expected, and we give a slight edge for victory to the visitors.

GG (BTTS-Yes)

Predicted CS: 1:2

Sturm Graz vs Brann

Sturm Graz is currently in 31st place with 4 points and has no real chance of advancing, but they are motivated to finish their European campaign with a better performance. Brann is in 22nd place with 9 points and still has a chance to improve their position and secure advancement to the next stage.

Sturm Graz will try to be more active at home, but Brann seems more compact and stable in their organization. A close and tight match is expected with few chances, and the visitors are unlikely to leave without any points.

X2 (Draw or Brann to Win)

Predicted CS: 0:1

Stuttgart vs Young Boys

Stuttgart is currently in 13th place with 12 points and has a real chance to improve their ranking with a win in the last round. After playing 7 matches, they have 4 wins and 3 losses, with no draws, and a goal difference of 12:7, showing a solid but fluctuating form.

Offensively, Stuttgart plays dynamically and directly, with quick attacks and good intensity, but defensively they can be vulnerable when the pace is high. El Khannouss, Bounani, and Leweling are key offensive players and are the most effective in finishing. At home, they have a perfect record in Europe, with strong performances and good control of the matches. Their style of play is attack-oriented, featuring high pressing and fast transitions, which often leads to results.

Young Boys is currently in 23rd place with 9 points, and their chances of advancing to the next stage are still uncertain, so they need a positive result. After 7 matches, they have three wins and four losses, with no draws, resulting in a goal difference of 8:13 and a series of negative outcomes recently.

Offensively, they have moments of effectiveness, but overall, they create very few clear chances. Defensively, they often struggle under pressure and concede goals in succession. Monteiro, Janko, and Males are among the few scorers on the team. When playing away, they appear insecure and lack confidence. Their style of play is reactive, attempting counterattacks, but they have limited stability and organization.

Stuttgart will push for a fast pace and offense in front of their home crowd, while Young Boys will try to defend and wait for their opportunities. The difference in form and home performance favors the host.

1 (Stuttgart to Win)

Predicted CS: 2:0

Published:

Kindly be advised that all odds are accurate as of the publication date and time indicated, and they may be subject to alterations.

This article is part of Europa League Matchday 8.
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