Red Star Belgrade vs Celtic – Europa League Showdown
A big night is set in Belgrade as Red Star and Celtic face off in their Europa League opener. This clash carries more weight than just another group-stage game. Both teams arrive with strong domestic form but also with plenty to prove on the European stage.
Celtic’s history with Serbian opponents offers a mixed picture. They have faced Red Star twice before, most notably back in the 1968–69 European Cup, when they emerged 6–2 winners on aggregate. Across six meetings with Serbian sides, three victories have been collected, but not a single away win has been secured. That stat alone underlines the challenge ahead at the Rajko Mitic Stadium, a venue widely known for its intensity and atmosphere.
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Red Star, for their part, have turned their home ground into a fortress in recent years. Only two of their last 13 home matches in the Europa League have been lost, and five of their last seven have been won. That level of consistency has made Belgrade a daunting destination for visiting teams. The fans, the noise, and the pressure all combine to create one of the toughest away trips in Europe.
For Celtic, this marks their first Europa League appearance since the 2021–22 season. That campaign ended in disappointment, as they failed to progress from the group stage despite winning three of their four matches. The memory of that exit, coupled with a more recent frustration of missing out on the Champions League after a shock defeat to Kairat Almaty, will linger in the background. Manager Brendan Rodgers knows he must lift his squad quickly, because the Serbian challenge offers little room for hesitation.
Red Star will look to their key players to make the difference, and one of the standouts is forward Aleksandar Katai. His goalscoring form has been outstanding, with double figures already recorded early in the season. Add to that the presence of summer signing Marko Arnautovic, who has been more provider than finisher so far, and it is clear that Celtic’s defense will have its hands full. Behind them, goalkeeper Matheus brings vast Europa League experience, ranking among the most seasoned shot-stoppers in the competition’s history.
Celtic do have positives to draw on. They remain unbeaten in nine matches this season, and they have been boosted by the return of right-back Anthony Ralston, who had been sidelined with injury. However, with first-choice Alistair Johnston still absent, young Colby Donovan may again be called upon, and Red Star are expected to target his side of the pitch with relentless attacks.
So, the stage is set. On one hand, a Celtic side eager to reassert themselves in Europe, on the other, a Red Star team thriving at home and determined to extend their unbeaten streak. With both teams in strong domestic form, the Rajko Mitic Stadium promises a fiery atmosphere, a fierce contest, and perhaps a few surprises when the whistle blows.
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