Europa League Betting Tips: 29 January 2026

Key takeaways (TL;DR)

• Several British sides need points to secure round‑of‑24 spots.
• Aston Villa and Porto have already secured qualification, but they still have something to prove.
• Teams like Utrecht and Rangers are already eliminated, making motivation a factor.
• Injury lists and squad rotation will shape line‑ups for this packed schedule.
• Recent form and head‑to‑head records offer clues for your bets.

Aston Villa v Salzburg: Holte End Party or Dead‑Rubber?

Aston Villa are safe in the top two of the 36‑team standings and have won six of their seven league‑phase games. They have also turned Villa Park into a fortress with 19 wins in 22 home matches. Salzburg, meanwhile, need a win to sneak into the top 24; they sit 28th and are no strangers to European away upsets. However, they’ve seldom beaten English opposition and have just two victories in this phase.

• Tip: Home win with over 2.5 goals – Villa’s free‑scoring front line meets a Salzburg side that must attack to survive.

Celtic v Utrecht: Hoops to March On?

Celtic are 24th with eight points and must hold onto their spot. A managerial merry‑go‑round has settled, and they are unbeaten in five games. Utrecht have collected just one point and are already eliminated. Their away form is dreadful: five straight defeats. Motivation clearly favours the Scottish champions.

• Tip: Celtic to win to nil – an invigorated defence will relish facing a toothless Dutch side.

Porto v Rangers: Dragons Breathing Fire

Porto sit mid‑table and need a win to improve their chances of bypassing the round‑of‑24. Their defence has kept clean sheets in four of five matches in 2026 and they have a perfect home record in this competition. Rangers are already out but come in on a winning streak across all competitions. Head‑to‑head records are balanced, yet Rangers often score at least one goal.

• Tip: Both teams to score – Rangers’ attacking pride meets Porto’s strong home form. A goal apiece looks likely.

Lyon v PAOK: Les Gones Seek Revival

Lyon’s domestic struggles and early cup exits have turned the Europa League into a lifeline. Their recent form is shaky, yet a win here could clinch a top‑24 spot. PAOK have quietly impressed in Greece and could leapfrog the French side. Both clubs have injury issues, and fatigue may influence the tempo.

• Tip: Over 2.5 goals – Two attack‑minded teams with shaky defences could provide a high‑scoring affair.

Panathinaikos v Roma: Athens Showdown

Panathinaikos host Roma at the Athens Olympic Stadium. The Greek side’s home support is famously intense, but they are out of contention and may rotate. Roma still need points to secure top 16 status and have a stronger squad. Form favours the Italians, though they have a tendency to concede late.

• Tip: Roma + BTTS – expect a Roma win, but a passionate home crowd might inspire Panathinaikos to net at least once.

Real Betis v Feyenoord: Andalusian Flair v Dutch Tenacity

Betis welcome Feyenoord to Seville. Real Betis’ form is patchy, yet they know a win might secure a favourable seed. Feyenoord, buoyed by an attacking philosophy, have already qualified and may rotate. With nothing to lose, the match could open up.

• Tip: BTTS & over 2.5 goals – both sides boast dynamic forwards and suspect defences.

Nottingham Forest v Ferencvaros: Trentside Pressure Cooker

The City Ground hosts a crucial tie where Nottingham Forest need a win to stay in the competition. They’ve been inconsistent domestically but strong at home. Ferencvaros have had a memorable run but lack depth. Motivation and home advantage might tilt the balance.

• Tip: Home win – Forest’s urgency should translate into three points.

Ludogorets v Nice: Bulgarian Test for Les Aiglons

Ludogorets entertain Nice in Razgrad. The Bulgarian champions are surprisingly resilient at home, while Nice have enjoyed a renaissance but could rotate with domestic priorities. This looks evenly poised, with neither side sure of progression.

• Tip: Under 2.5 goals – expect a cagey affair with few clear-cut chances.

What is Europa League?

The Europa League is UEFA’s secondary European club competition, featuring clubs that narrowly missed the Champions League and offering a route to continental glory.

As the group stage draws to a close, punters must assess form, injuries, and motivation before placing any wagers. Let me explain how these factors intersect on matchday 8.

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How to read our Europa League betting tips

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Conclusion

Matchday 8 serves up narratives: some teams hunt qualification, others play for pride. Knowing who has something to play for – and who doesn’t – helps make educated bets. British clubs face mixed fortunes, but the Europa League always delivers surprises. If you’re new to betting or simply seeking a fresh bookmaker, explore our homepage for guides and offers.

Remember: the thrill of European nights is enhanced when bets are placed responsibly. Enjoy the football, savour the drama, and may your wagers be as successful as the teams you back.