Celtic welcome Utrecht to Glasgow in a UEFA Europa League clash where both sides are desperate to put right a disappointing group campaign.
With neither team shining in terms of results, but Celtic boasting a more creative and prolific attack, the tactical battle at Celtic Park could hinge on which side can finally convert chances into points. Kick-off is set for 29 January, with both sets of supporters hoping for a spark to ignite their season.
Best Bets & Predictions
Based on underlying attacking data and recent tournament form, here are our top betting recommendations for this match. We’re particularly confident in both teams scoring due to Utrecht’s struggles for results and the hosts’ superior passing and possession metrics.
| Our Prediction | Odds & Bookmaker | Confidence | Why We’re Backing It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Both Teams to Score: Yes | 20/21 @ Bet365 (51.2%) | ⭐⭐⭐ | There could be value here as both teams have defensive vulnerabilities – Celtic have conceded 13 in 7, Utrecht 11 in as many. Utrecht create plenty (150 shots in 13 Europa League games) and have a set piece threat via El Karouani, so a goal for the visitors is likely even if Celtic dominate. |
| Souffian El Karouani (Utrecht) to Assist Anytime | 6/1 @ Bet365 | ⭐⭐⭐ | El Karouani has an outstanding 6 assists in 13 games – the most for any defender in the competition – and leads Utrecht in key passes and accurate crosses. Celtic have shown vulnerability on set pieces, and Utrecht will look to exploit this with his delivery. |
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Season Form & Standings
Both teams have endured challenging group campaigns, but Celtic have been more competitive in their fixtures while Utrecht remain winless. Recent form reflects long-standing struggles for Utrecht on the European stage.
| Team | Pos | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Celtic | 20 | 7 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 9 | 13 | -4 | 8 |
| Utrecht | 34 | 7 | 0 | 1 | 6 | 3 | 11 | -8 | 1 |
Potential Match-Winners
- Daizen Maeda (Celtic): The Japanese attacker offers relentless pressing and is one of Celtic’s most direct threats, averaging over 2 shots per game in Europe and always a livewire in transition.
- Hyun-Jun Yang (Celtic): Known for his movement and finishing in tight spaces, Yang is a candidate to benefit from Celtic’s expected possession dominance against a deep-lying Utrecht defence.
- Souffian El Karouani (Utrecht): Utrecht’s left-back is their creative heartbeat, leading the squad with 6 assists, 33 key passes and 35 accurate crosses – a remarkable return from defence.
- Sebastien Haller (Utrecht): While Utrecht have struggled for goals, Haller’s direct play (averaging 2.5 shots per game) and willingness to shoot from range could trouble a Celtic backline that’s shown some vulnerability.
Head-to-Head: Last 2 Meetings
These two sides haven’t met since 2010, where they clashed in this competition. Both sides won once each, with Utrecht picking up a 4-0 victory and Celtic winning 2-0.
| Date | Score | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| 26/08/10 | Utrecht 4-0 Celtic | Europa League |
| 19/08/10 | Celtic 2-0 Utrecht | Europa League |
Conclusion: Will Celtic Make Home Advantage Count?
With Utrecht winless and Celtic showing more control in their group matches, the numbers point to a home victory – especially with the Scottish side’s superior pass accuracy and ball retention. But Utrecht’s creative output (especially through El Karouani) means both teams could get on the scoresheet. Our standout tip is Both Teams to Score at 20/21 (51.2%) with Bet365.
Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.
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