Celtic have been in remarkably consistent form, going unbeaten in their last ten official matches with seven wins and three draws, achieving an impressive 70% win rate. Their home performances have been particularly dominant, collecting four wins and one draw from five matches. During this stretch, they have averaged 2.3 goals per game while conceding just one per match, keeping four clean sheets. In their most recent outing, Celtic secured a dramatic 3–2 away victory over Kilmarnock, demonstrating strong comeback ability and mental resilience.
However, injuries present a significant concern. Up to ten players are currently sidelined, including Alistair Johnston (hamstring injury), Cameron Carter (Achilles injury), and Jota (knee injury), while several others are being rotated. The projected starting lineup features Schmeichel in goal; Araujo, Trusty, Scales, and Tierney in defense; McGregor and Reo Hatate anchoring midfield; with Nygren, Yang Hyun-jun, Adam, and Maeda forming an aggressive front line. Celtic are expected to deploy an attack-oriented 4-2-4 formation. Overall, their strong home form and attacking efficiency are clear strengths, but squad depth is under pressure due to injuries.
Stuttgart have also displayed strong momentum, recording seven wins, one draw, and two defeats in their last ten matches, matching Celtic’s 70% win rate. At home, they have won four and drawn one of their last five, while their away record stands at three wins and two losses from five games. Offensively, they average 2.2 goals per match and concede 1.1 goals per game, reflecting balanced performance on both ends of the pitch. Their most recent match saw a confident 3–1 home victory over Cologne, further boosting team morale.
In terms of squad availability, Stuttgart are dealing with nine absentees, including Dan-Axel Zagadou (muscle injury), Lazar Jovanovic (back injury), and Luca Jaquez (illness), with some players also being rotated. The likely starting eleven includes Nübel in goal; Mittelstädt, Chabot, Jeltsch, and Vagnoman across the back; Andrich and Karazor in midfield; and Führich, Undav, Leweling, and Demirovic leading the attack. Stuttgart are also expected to line up in a 4-2-4 system. While their away performances are slightly less consistent than at home, their overall competitiveness and balance make them a formidable opponent.
This match is the UEFA Europa League knockout round play-off first leg, scheduled to kick off at 8:00 PM local time. Both teams arrive in excellent form, with comparable attacking output and recent momentum. Celtic benefit from a clear home advantage and remain unbeaten in recent matches, but their extensive injury list raises concerns about depth and rotation. Stuttgart face similar injury challenges but appear tactically balanced and capable of handling high-tempo encounters.
Considering both sides’ attacking tendencies and similar form trajectories, the match is expected to be played at a fast pace with scoring opportunities for both teams. While Celtic’s home strength is undeniable, Stuttgart’s balance and resilience suggest they may edge the contest slightly.
Recommendation: Draw or Stuttgart to win
Predicted Score: 1–1 or 1–2
