The UEFA Europa League kicks off its group stage with a mouthwatering clash between Serbian giants Red Star Belgrade and Scottish powerhouse Celtic on September 24, 2025. This Matchday 1 encounter at the Rajko Mitić Stadium in Belgrade promises high stakes, passionate fans, and plenty of action on the pitch. For football enthusiasts searching for Red Star Belgrade vs. Celtic prediction, odds, and betting tips, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll dive deep into team form, key players, historical context, and expert insights to help you make informed bets.
As two clubs with rich European histories, this matchup isn’t just about three points—it’s about setting the tone for the entire campaign. Red Star Belgrade, also known as Crvena Zvezda, are looking to leverage their home advantage in front of a raucous crowd, while Celtic aim to translate their domestic dominance into continental success. With both teams boasting attacking flair, expect goals and drama in this Red Star Belgrade vs. Celtic Europa League fixture.
Red Star Belgrade: The Serbian Powerhouse at Home
Red Star Belgrade enter this Europa League tie as defending Serbian SuperLiga champions, having clinched their seventh consecutive title last season. Under manager Vladan Milojević, they’ve started the 2025/26 domestic campaign strongly, sitting near the top of the table with an impressive goal-scoring record. In their last 10 matches across all competitions, Red Star have scored in every game, netting an average of 2.5 goals per outing.
Their path to the Europa League group stage wasn’t straightforward. After dropping out of Champions League qualifying, they navigated the Europa League playoffs with gritty performances, including a notable win over a tough opponent. At home, Red Star are formidable—the Rajko Mitić Stadium, often called the “Marakana,” has seen them unbeaten in their last 15 European home games, with clean sheets in over half of those. This fortress mentality could be key against Celtic.
Recent form highlights their attacking prowess. In a recent derby against Partizan Belgrade, Red Star secured a hard-fought victory, showcasing their ability to grind out results under pressure. They’ve also been involved in high-scoring affairs, with over 2.5 goals landing in 7 of their last 10 games. Defensively, they’ve conceded in recent outings, which might open the door for Celtic’s forwards.
Key to their success is a balanced squad mixing experience with youth. Players like midfielder Mirko Ivanić have been vocal about the challenge ahead, noting Celtic’s European reputation and calling for fan support to create an intimidating atmosphere. Red Star’s strategy often revolves around quick transitions and set-piece threats, areas where they’ve excelled this season.
Celtic: Scotland’s Dominant Force Seeking European Glory
Celtic, managed by Brendan Rodgers in his second spell, are once again ruling the Scottish Premiership. As of September 2025, they’ve won all their opening league matches, scoring prolifically and conceding sparingly. Their attack is firing on all cylinders, with an average of over 2 goals per game in domestic play.
However, European competitions have been a mixed bag for the Hoops. After exiting the Champions League qualifiers earlier this year, they’ve dropped into the Europa League, where they hope to replicate past successes like reaching the knockout stages in recent seasons. Away form in Europe has been a concern—Celtic have won just 2 of their last 10 away ties in UEFA competitions—but they’ve shown resilience, drawing tough games and scoring on the road.
Recent performances include dominant wins over rivals like Rangers, where their team total over 1.5 goals has been a recurring theme. Celtic’s squad depth is enviable, with summer signings bolstering their midfield and defense. They’re unbeaten in their last 12 matches across all competitions, a streak that includes high-scoring victories.
Tactically, Rodgers favors a possession-based style with quick wing play. This could exploit Red Star’s occasional defensive lapses, especially if Celtic can control the midfield battle.
Head-to-Head History
Red Star Belgrade and Celtic have met only twice in competitive fixtures, both in the 2022/23 Europa League group stage. Celtic emerged victorious in both legs: a 1-0 win in Belgrade and a 2-0 triumph at Celtic Park. Those results give the Scottish side a psychological edge, but much has changed since then. Red Star have strengthened their squad, and playing at home first could flip the script.
In those encounters, defenses dominated, with under 2.5 goals in both games. However, given the current form of both teams—high-scoring domestic runs—this matchup might buck that trend. Historically, when these clubs face off, it’s been tight, with no more than two goals separating them.
Looking broader, Red Star have a strong record against Scottish teams, winning 4 of their last 6 home games against them. Celtic, meanwhile, have struggled in Serbia, losing 3 of their last 5 visits. This head-to-head adds layers to our Red Star Belgrade vs. Celtic prediction.
Red Star Belgrade’s Standouts
Young prospects like Veljko Milosavljević, a teenage center-back linked with Celtic earlier this year, could make an impact if called upon.
Celtic’s Game-Changers
Celtic’s wingers, like Daizen Maeda, thrive in transitions, potentially capitalizing on Red Star’s high line.
Tactical Breakdown: How the Game Might Unfold
Red Star Belgrade typically deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasizing width and counter-attacks. At home, they’ll press high to disrupt Celtic’s build-up, aiming to force turnovers in dangerous areas. Their set-pieces are a weapon, with tall defenders like Uroš Spajić posing aerial threats.
Celtic, in a 4-3-3, will look to dominate possession and stretch the play. Rodgers’ side excels in quick one-twos and overlapping runs, but they must beware Red Star’s speedy forwards on the break. The midfield battle—McGregor vs. Ivanić—could decide the game.
Weather in Belgrade on matchday is expected to be mild, around 18°C, with no rain forecast, favoring an open game. Injury concerns: Red Star might miss a couple of defenders, while Celtic have a near-full squad.
Given both teams’ recent trends—BTTS in 7 of Red Star’s last 10 and 6 of Celtic’s last 8—this could be end-to-end.
Red Star Belgrade vs. Celtic Prediction
Predicting the outcome of this Red Star Belgrade vs. Celtic clash is tricky, but based on form, home advantage, and stats, we’re leaning toward a narrow home win for Red Star. Their unbeaten European home streak and ability to score multiple goals give them the edge. Celtic will fight hard, but the intimidating atmosphere might prove too much.
Score prediction: Red Star Belgrade 2-1 Celtic.
Alternative scenarios: If Celtic start strong, a draw is possible (31.82% chance per models). For optimists, Celtic could nick it 1-2 if their attack clicks.
Odds as of September 22, 2025 (subject to change):
Match Result:
Both Teams to Score (BTTS):
Over/Under 2.5 Goals:
Asian Handicap:
Best odds from sites like Bet365, Bwin, and 1xBet. Shop around for value, and consider live betting as the game unfolds.
Betting Tips for Red Star Belgrade vs. Celtic
Here are our top Red Star Belgrade vs. Celtic betting tips, backed by stats:
For accumulators, pair this with other Europa League games like Stuttgart vs. Celta Vigo for boosted odds. Always gamble responsibly—set limits and use tools like deposit caps.
Injury Updates and Lineups
Red Star Belgrade possible XI: Glazer; Rodić, Spajić, Dragović, Mimović; Kanga, Hwang; Ivanić, Maksimović, Silas; Ndiaye.
Celtic possible XI: Schmeichel; Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Scales, Taylor; McGregor, Bernardo, Hatate; Kuhn, Kyogo, Maeda.
No major injuries reported, but check closer to kickoff for updates.
Why This Match Matters in the Europa League
This opener could define Group Stage progression. Red Star aim for knockout rounds after last season’s exit, while Celtic target a deep run. With tough groups including teams like Porto and Rangers potentially lurking, points here are gold.
Fan Atmosphere and Broadcast Info
The Marakana will be electric with 50,000+ fans. Celtic’s traveling support is legendary, adding to the vibe. Watch on TNT Sports in the UK or Paramount+ in the US.
Historical Context: Clubs’ European Pedigrees
Red Star won the 1991 European Cup, beating Marseille in the final. Celtic’s 1967 triumph over Inter Milan made them the first British club to win it. Both have passionate fanbases and a hunger for glory.
Statistical Deep Dive
Expert Opinions and Community Buzz
Analysts are split: 50% back Celtic, 50% Red Star. On X (formerly Twitter), fans predict goals galore. AI models give Red Star a 39% win chance.
Red Star Belgrade vs. Celtic is set to be a thriller, blending Serbian passion with Scottish grit. Our prediction favors Red Star, but with attractive odds on BTTS and over 2.5, there’s value for bettors. Remember, betting should be fun—play smart.
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