Vietnam
Celtic vs Stuttgart: O’Neill’s Revival Faces Crucial Europa League Test
Celtic FC VS VfB Stuttgart Livescore / H2H stats and Live Streaming
Time:20-02-2026 04:00 Friday
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Celtic F.C. are set to host VfB Stuttgart at Celtic Park for the first leg of their Europa League knockout playoff tie. Celtic advanced after finishing 21st in the league phase with 11 points. Stuttgart secured a stronger position in 11th place with 15 points, setting up a competitive encounter.
Team Analysis:
Celtic F.C. have been revitalized since the return of Martin O'Neill, going unbeaten in 10 matches with eight wins and two draws, including a decisive Europa League victory over FC Utrecht that secured their knockout spot. Their recent form features a five-game winning streak highlighted by a dramatic comeback against Kilmarnock F.C., though repeated stoppage-time winners suggest lingering issues in closing out games. Meanwhile, VfB Stuttgart remain strong overall with an impressive domestic and European campaign despite inconsistent away results, keeping this matchup finely balanced.
Player Situation:
Celtic F.C. are dealing with several injury absences, including Alistair Johnston, Cameron Carter-Vickers and Jota, but their January additions such as Julian Araujo could feature in the Europa League clash. On the other side, VfB Stuttgart will also miss a number of players through fitness concerns, limiting their options. However, Stuttgart can still rely on the attacking partnership of Deniz Undav and Ermedin Demirovic, who arrive in strong scoring form for the trip to Celtic Park.
Result Prediction:
Celtic F.C. have looked revitalized since the return of Martin O'Neill, building strong momentum ahead of this tie. Although VfB Stuttgart may enter as slight favorites for the first leg, Celtic’s recent form suggests they will not be easily beaten. The contest is expected to be tightly contested and could ultimately finish level.
Predicted Result: Celtic 1-1 Stuttgart.
The Most Popular
-
Cagliari vs Lecce Preview: Hosts Eye Crucial Home Win in Relegation Battle -
Inter Plot Ambitious Summer Move for Nico Paz and Arda Güler -
AC Milan vs Como: Title Race Pressure Meets a Dangerous Underdog -
Inter Milan Set to Hold March Renewal Talks with Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Offering 2+1 Contract -
Galatasaray S.K. and Juventus F.C. Set for Crucial Champions League Clash at Rams Park -
Indonesia Eye New Firepower as Naturalization Plans Could Add Three Strikers
