Red Star Belgrade welcome Celtic to Belgrade in what promises to be a fascinating clash as the new UEFA Europa League campaign gets underway. With both sides eager to make a statement in their group opener, the atmosphere inside the Rajko Mitić Stadium is sure to be electric. Kick-off is set for Thursday evening, with both clubs looking to establish early momentum after a summer of squad rebuilding.
Market Snapshot & Implied Probability
The bookmakers see this as a very tight contest, with slight preference for the visitors. Here are the standout prices and what they mean for your bet:
For both teams to find the net, the ‘Yes’ selection is favoured at 8/13 (61.9%), suggesting the market expects chances at both ends. If you think one side can keep a clean sheet, ‘No’ is available at 5/4 (44.4%).
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Best Bets & Predictions
| Our Prediction | Odds & Bookmaker | Confidence | Why We’re Backing It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Both Teams to Score – Yes | 8/13 @ Betfred (61.9%) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Value due to attacking options on both sides. The market expects goals at both ends. |
| Celtic to Win | 6/4 @ Betfred (40.0%) | ⭐⭐⭐ | Celtic have greater European pedigree and a deep attack. |
Our approach: Start with Both Teams to Score – Yes, then add Celtic to Win for accumulator value.
Odds correct at the time of writing.
Season Form & Standings
2025/26 season to date (pre-group stage):
| Team | Pos | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Celtic | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Red Star Belgrade | 28 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
With both teams yet to play in the group, everything is on the line in this first fixture.
Potential Match-Winners
With little recent statistical form to rely on, attention turns to the squads:
- Bruno Duarte (Red Star Belgrade): Direct striker capable of troubling defences, especially at home.
- Marko Arnautović (Red Star Belgrade): Experienced forward who can be decisive in tight European contests.
- Kelechi Ịheanachọ (Celtic): Brings Premier League nous and a proven eye for goal to the Scottish champions.
- Daizen Maeda (Celtic): Known for relentless pressing and explosive pace, can stretch the Red Star Belgrade backline.
These names could make the difference in a game where margins are likely to be fine.
Head-to-Head
These two sides have not previously met in European competition.
| Date | Score | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| N/A | No previous meetings | N/A |
Conclusion
With both teams desperate to lay down a marker in Group stage action, this feels like a contest that could go either way, but the attacking talent on display makes Both Teams To Score – Yes a standout pick at 8/13 @ Betfred. Will Celtic’s European experience be enough to see them past Red Star Belgrade’s fortress? Back goals, and keep an eye on those in-form attackers.
Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.