Celta Vigo take on the visitors Bologna in the round 6 match of UEFA Europa League – League Phase. The match will be played on Thursday, December 11th at Estadio de Balaídos (Vigo).
Celta are a solid and well-supported side, though far from a true powerhouse and often forced to battle for survival in La Liga. They nearly dropped into the Segunda under Benítez, but Giráldez, who replaced him, first stabilized the situation and then collected 55 points last season — good enough for seventh place and a Europa League berth. However, their early domestic form this term was shaky, with nearly ten winless matches featuring a string of 1-1 draws and a couple of defeats. They eventually managed to improve in mid-autumn, and their European campaign began reasonably well: despite losing in Stuttgart, they beat PAOK, Nice, and Dynamo Zagreb. Although they conceded three goals in Razgrad to Ludogorets in the latest round, they rallied with two late strikes but still fell 2-3. Celta’s recent home displays have been more consistent, often controlling possession and limiting opponents’ chances. Their gradual improvement suggests they are becoming more competitive against stronger European sides as the season progresses.
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Bologna look in good shape at the moment. Rossoblù unexpectedly broke out two seasons ago by finishing fifth. The architect of that success, Thiago Motta, left for Juventus, and without him both their Champions League debut and their Serie A campaign slipped to a ninth-place finish. Still, Italiano showed his qualities by capturing the domestic cup, which secured another Europa League appearance, while their league form this season has been more stable, keeping them inside the top five. Their European campaign began with a 0-1 defeat in Birmingham against Aston Villa, but they recovered by alternating wins (away to FCSB and at home to Salzburg’s Red Bull) with draws (against Freiburg and Brann, both at home). Bologna have been particularly resilient defensively, often keeping matches tight and minimizing risks. Their ability to grind out results away from home indicates they are becoming a reliable side in continental competition.
This will be the first time the Rossoblù travel to Balaídos. Given home advantage, Celta are viewed as slight favourites in Vigo. However, Bologna appear strong enough at the moment to avoid defeat on Thursday.
Prediction for the match: Bologna not to lose (X2).
