The UEFA Europa League knockout playoff round brings an intriguing first-leg clash between LOSC Lille and Crvena Zvezda at Stade Pierre-Mauroy. The French side will be eager to make home advantage count after finishing 18th in the league phase, while the Serbian champions arrive in fine form, having ended their group campaign in 15th place. The two teams met earlier in the competition, with Crvena Zvezda claiming a narrow 1-0 victory in November 2025. This time, Lille will be determined to turn the tables and take a crucial step toward qualification.

LOSC Lille’s Recent Form and Key Stats

LOSC Lille approach this encounter in a mixed run of form. Their last five matches across all competitions have produced just one win, two draws, and two defeats, with an average of 0.6 goals scored and 1.2 conceded per game. Their most recent outing ended in a 1-1 draw against Brest on February 14, a result that extended their winless streak to three matches. Despite these struggles, Lille have shown resilience in Europe, winning four and losing four of their eight Europa League fixtures this season, averaging 1.5 goals scored and 1.1 conceded per match.

At home, Lille have been more consistent, winning their last two Europa League matches and scoring five goals in the process. However, their attacking efficiency remains a concern, as at least one team failed to score before half-time in 29 of their last 31 matches. The French side will need to rediscover their cutting edge if they are to overcome a confident Crvena Zvezda outfit.

• Europa League record: 4 wins, 0 draws, 4 losses


• Average goals scored: 1.5 | Average conceded: 1.1


• Last 5 matches: 1 win, 2 draws, 2 defeats


• Last result: 1-1 vs Brest (Ligue 1)

Injuries have also disrupted Lille’s rhythm, with several key players sidelined. Nevertheless, the squad retains enough depth to compete strongly at home. The focus will be on experienced forward Olivier Giroud, who has already scored three goals in the competition and remains a vital figure in their attacking setup.

Crvena Zvezda’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Crvena Zvezda arrive in France full of confidence after a dominant run of results. The Serbian side have gone unbeaten in their last five matches, winning four and drawing one, while averaging an impressive 3.2 goals scored and just 0.6 conceded per game. Their most recent fixture saw them cruise to a 3-0 away victory over Železničar Pančevo on February 14, further underlining their attacking prowess.

In the Europa League, Crvena Zvezda’s campaign has been solid, with four wins, two draws, and two defeats. They have averaged 0.9 goals scored and 0.8 conceded per match, showing a balance between defensive discipline and attacking efficiency. Notably, they have not lost at half-time in their last 20 matches and have led at the break in each of their last four away games. This consistency in the opening 45 minutes could prove crucial in a two-legged tie.

• Europa League record: 4 wins, 2 draws, 2 losses


• Average goals scored: 0.9 | Average conceded: 0.8


• Last 5 matches: 4 wins, 1 draw, 0 defeats


• Last result: 3-0 vs Železničar Pančevo

Crvena Zvezda’s away form has been particularly impressive, with victories in their last two Europa League trips. However, their historical record in France remains poor, as they are winless in their last nine visits (2 draws, 7 defeats). Overcoming that psychological barrier will be key if they are to secure a positive result in Lille. The Serbian champions have also seen over 0.5 goals scored in the second half in 30 of their last 33 matches, suggesting that late drama could be on the cards once again.

Lille vs Crvena Zvezda Analysis and Prediction

This matchup promises to be a fascinating contrast of styles. Lille will rely on their home strength and defensive organization, while Crvena Zvezda will look to maintain their attacking rhythm and capitalize on their strong first-half performances. The French side’s recent struggles in front of goal could be offset by their solid European home record, but they will need to be wary of the visitors’ quick transitions and clinical finishing.

Historically, Lille have found it difficult against Serbian opposition, and their previous meeting with Crvena Zvezda ended in a 1-0 defeat. However, with both teams showing attacking intent and the visitors’ tendency to produce high-scoring games, this first leg could deliver plenty of goalmouth action. The data also supports this view, with a 59% probability for Both Teams To Score and a 60% likelihood of Over 2.5 goals.

Given the current form and statistical trends, the encounter is expected to be open and competitive, with both sides capable of finding the net. Lille’s home advantage might help them stay in contention, but Crvena Zvezda’s momentum and attacking sharpness make them a dangerous opponent.

Lille vs Crvena Zvezda prediction from BetMines: Over 2.5 goals with 60% probability.