Celta and PAOK are playing their match in Matchday 2 of the Europa League group stage, which takes place at the Estadio Abanca Balaídos, home of Celta.
Facts
- Celta are winless at home this season: three draws and one defeat in four matches.
- Both teams scored in their last three home games, all of which ended in a 1-1 draw.
- Exactly two goals were scored in each of Celta’s four home games this season.
- BTTS: No in all five of PAOK’s Europa League fixtures this season (qualifiers and group stage). Four of those ended with 0–1 total goals.
- Four of PAOK’s last six games in the Europa League’s group stage finished with 2–3 total goals.
- Six straight BTTS: No results for PAOK in the Europa League’s League Phase.
Betting Tip: Celta - PAOK
La Liga is widely regarded as the strongest or second-strongest league in the world, far ahead of the Greek Super League in terms of rhythm and quality. But that doesn’t justify Celta being priced at 1.60 for the win, not when they have yet to win at home this season and consistently concede.
On paper, value lies with the double chance (X2), but backing it feels risky. The safer and more sensible play is Both Teams to Score, though the price is not overly generous.
- Recommendation: ΒΤΤS: Yes
- Odds: 1.80 (at the time of writing)
Celta
Last Thursday, Celta travelled to Germany to face Stuttgart. They were still searching for their first win of the season, having drawn five straight 1-1s in La Liga and lost on the opening day.
The wait continued. This time, they not only failed to win but also failed to keep their trademark 1-1, falling 2-1. Their display was poor, especially in the first half, where they were virtually absent. In truth, the final score flattered them.
Bouanani broke the deadlock (51’), El Khannouss doubled Stuttgart’s lead (68’), and only a late penalty from Iglesias (86’) reduced the deficit. Their next European fixtures are at home to Nice and away to Dinamo Zagreb.
PAOK
The pressure was huge ahead of their home clash with Maccabi Tel Aviv. A win was considered a must as is the club’s ambition to finish inside the top 24 and continue in the knockout stages.
They failed to deliver. Against a manageable opponent, PAOK could not take advantage. They now need to overcome themselves if they wish to advance.
They created chances but were wasteful in front of goal, while their standout performer was their goalkeeper, who produced several excellent saves to keep them alive.
The lack of goals is becoming a real problem, weighing heavily on the team psychologically. Their next European challenges are against Lille in France and Young Boys in Greece.
