UEFA Europa League Preview | Thursday, 6 November 2025

Roma, Aston Villa, and Fenerbahçe Headline a Jam-Packed Europa League Night

Thursday’s 18-match schedule delivers high-quality European action across the continent, with form teams seeking to secure early qualification to the knockout stage.

Early Kick-offs (19:45 SAST)

Basel vs FCSB
A well-balanced fixture between two disciplined sides. Basel’s home record and stronger squad depth should prove decisive.
Edge: Basel

Dinamo Zagreb vs Celta Vigo
Dinamo are tough to beat at Maksimir, but Celta’s passing rhythm could earn them a share of the points.
Edge: Draw

FC Midtjylland vs Celtic
Celtic’s experience and tempo in European competition make them favourites, though the Danes are compact at home.
Edge: Celtic

FC Salzburg vs Go Ahead Eagles
Salzburg’s attacking structure and pressing quality should dominate from start to finish.
Edge: FC Salzburg (Banker)

FC Utrecht vs FC Porto
Porto bring European pedigree and better balance across the pitch. Utrecht’s energy may keep it close early.
Edge: FC Porto

Crvena Zvezda vs Lille
Lille’s transitional speed and defensive shape give them a narrow advantage despite Belgrade’s difficult atmosphere.
Edge: Lille

Malmo FF vs Panathinaikos
Physical matchup. Malmo will battle strongly at home, but Panathinaikos’ organisation and control make them slight favourites.
Edge: Panathinaikos

Nice vs Freiburg
Nice are improving domestically, yet Freiburg’s European consistency and tactical discipline give them the edge.
Edge: Freiburg

Sturm Graz vs Nottingham Forest
Forest’s pace and creativity should outmatch the hosts if they maintain composure away from home.
Edge: Nottingham Forest

Late Kick-offs (22:00 SAST)

Aston Villa vs Maccabi Tel Aviv
Villa Park remains a fortress in European competition. The Premier League side’s intensity and squad depth make them overwhelming favourites.
Edge: Aston Villa (Banker)

Bologna vs Brann
Bologna’s structure and home form point toward a straightforward win.
Edge: Bologna

Ferencváros vs Ludogorets Razgrad
Two well-matched sides with counter-attacking strength. The Bulgarian champions may edge it late.
Edge: Ludogorets Razgrad

PAOK FC vs Young Boys
The Toumba Stadium atmosphere makes this challenging for visitors. Young Boys’ counterplay can earn them a point.
Edge: Draw

Rangers vs AS Roma
Roma’s organisation and attacking precision under De Rossi should prove decisive at Ibrox.
Edge: AS Roma

Real Betis vs Lyon
Betis’ home control and possession game give them the advantage against Lyon’s inconsistent defence.
Edge: Real Betis

SC Braga vs Genk
Both sides play open football. Braga’s finishing at home should make the difference.
Edge: SC Braga

VfB Stuttgart vs Feyenoord
Feyenoord’s sharp attack and experience make them narrow favourites despite Stuttgart’s solid defence.
Edge: Feyenoord

Viktoria Plzeň vs Fenerbahçe
Fenerbahçe’s form and superior quality should secure a comfortable away win.
Edge: Fenerbahçe (Banker)

Summary Table

Highlights and Recommendations

• Bankers: FC Salzburg, Aston Villa, Fenerbahçe
• Strong Picks: Roma, Porto, Bologna, Betis, Celtic
• Likely Draws: Dinamo Zagreb v Celta Vigo, PAOK v Young Boys
• Upset Watch: Malmo v Panathinaikos, Ferencváros v Ludogorets

Kick-offs begin at 19:45 and 22:00 SAST. Ideal timing for evening betting updates, social media posts, and Soccer 13 pool analysis.