The UEFA Europa League knockout round playoff reaches its decisive stage as VfB Stuttgart host Celtic at the Mercedes-Benz Arena. The German side hold a commanding 4-1 advantage from the first leg and are now just ninety minutes away from securing a place in the round of 16, where either Braga or Porto await. For the Scottish champions, the task is monumental — they must overturn a three-goal deficit away from home against one of the most efficient attacking teams in the competition. The return leg promises intensity, goals, and plenty of drama as both sides aim to keep their European dreams alive.

VfB Stuttgart’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Stuttgart enter this match in excellent form, having lost only once in their last eight games across all competitions. Their most recent outing was a thrilling 3-3 draw against Heidenheim on February 22, where they rescued a point late on. Over their last five matches, Stuttgart have recorded three wins, one draw, and one defeat, averaging 2.8 goals scored and 1.4 conceded per game. In the Europa League, their record stands at 6 wins and 3 losses, with an average of 2.1 goals scored and 1.1 conceded per match.

The German side have been particularly dominant at home, winning all four of their Europa League fixtures at the Mercedes-Benz Arena during the league phase. They were also the highest-scoring home team in the group stage, netting 11 goals. Their attacking consistency is further highlighted by the fact that over 0.5 goals in the second half have been scored in each of their last 12 matches. With such a strong offensive record, Stuttgart will look to maintain their momentum and secure qualification in front of their supporters.

Despite their commanding position, Stuttgart face some selection concerns. Several players are unavailable due to injuries and suspensions, including key defender Julian Chabot. Midfielder Angelo Stiller remains doubtful after picking up a knock in the previous match. Even so, the team’s depth and attacking options, led by the in-form Deniz Undav, should provide enough firepower to manage the tie effectively.

Celtic’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Celtic travel to Germany knowing they must produce something extraordinary to stay in the competition. Their 4-1 home defeat in the first leg leaves them with a mountain to climb. Domestically, they have also struggled for consistency, suffering a 2-1 loss to Hibernian on February 22. Over their last five matches, the Scottish side have managed two wins, one draw, and two defeats, averaging 1.6 goals scored and 2.0 conceded per game.

In the Europa League, Celtic’s campaign has been turbulent, with a record of 3 wins, 2 draws, and 4 losses. They have averaged 1.6 goals scored and 2.1 conceded per match. However, their attacking spirit remains intact — they have scored in each of their last 13 matches in all competitions and in their last 15 away games in the Europa League. The Hoops’ matches tend to be open affairs, with over 1.5 goals scored in each of their last 25 Europa League fixtures and both teams finding the net in their last 12 away games in the competition.

While their attacking numbers are encouraging, Celtic’s defensive vulnerabilities have been costly. They have conceded in each of their last 12 Europa League matches, including all of their last 12 away fixtures. The team’s injury list remains long, with several key players sidelined. Nevertheless, forward Benjamin Nygren has been a bright spot, leading the team with 18 goals this season and scoring in six of his last eight appearances. His form will be crucial if Celtic are to mount any sort of comeback.

Stuttgart vs Celtic Tactical Overview

The first leg showcased the difference in efficiency between the two sides. Stuttgart were clinical, converting their chances and exploiting Celtic’s defensive lapses. The Germans created 1.88 expected goals and three clear-cut opportunities, while Celtic struggled to contain their pace and movement. With a three-goal cushion, Stuttgart are expected to adopt a more controlled approach, focusing on possession and exploiting spaces left by a Celtic side that must attack from the outset.

Celtic, on the other hand, have no choice but to play on the front foot. Their attacking tendencies and recent scoring record suggest they will create chances, but leaving gaps at the back could prove fatal against a Stuttgart team that thrives on quick transitions. Given both teams’ recent trends — Stuttgart’s strong home scoring record and Celtic’s consistent goal-scoring away from home — another high-scoring encounter seems likely.

• Head-to-head record: Stuttgart 2 wins, Celtic 1 win.


• Last meeting: Stuttgart 4-1 Celtic (February 19, 2026).


• BTTS (Both Teams To Score): occurred in 60% of recent matches.


• Over 2.5 goals: occurred in 60% of recent matches.

Stuttgart vs Celtic Prediction and Betting Analysis

All indicators point toward another entertaining match filled with goals. Stuttgart’s attacking efficiency at home and Celtic’s need to chase the game could combine to produce a lively contest. The Scottish side’s tendency to both score and concede away from home aligns with the statistical trends suggesting goals at both ends.

Given the data and current form, the BetMines prediction for this Europa League clash is Both Teams To Score (Yes) with a 60% probability. This outcome reflects both teams’ attacking strengths and defensive vulnerabilities, making it the most likely scenario for the return leg in Germany.