Free betting tips and reviews by experts 2026

Bologna scored at least one goal in the past seven games across competitions. They have also scored in eight of the ten EL games. Meanwhile, AS Roma scored in 12 of the past 13 games and also scored in seven of the past eight EL games. Moreover, both teams scored in three of the past H2H games. 

Despite the expectation for both teams to score, this first leg is anticipated to be a tactical, low-scoring affair. Both managers are likely to prioritize defensive structure to keep the tie alive for the second leg in Portugal. With both sides missing key offensive outlets—Porto without the injured Samu and Luuk de Jong, and Stuttgart missing playmaker Bilal El Khannouss via suspension—a cagey match with fewer than three goals is the professional expectation. 

Both these teams have good defense lately. Samsunspor conceded three goals in the last six matches, while Rayo Vallecano allowed three goals in the previous five games. We will unlikely see more than two goals on Thursday evening in Samsun.

Lille’s recent performances have combined resilient defending with clinical finishing from the few opportunities they create; therefore, there is a strong possibility that one of the teams will fail to score on Thursday. Speaking of stats, BTTS - NO has occurred in four of Lille’s last five matches across all competitions.

Nottingham went over 2.5 goals in the past three games and in seven out of ten EL games. On the other hand, Midtjylland went over 2.5 goals in all four road EL games and averaged 4.3 goals per game. Additionally, the previous H2H game saw five goals.

Celta Vigo enters this UEFA Europa League Round of 16 first leg with a formidable home advantage at Estadio Abanca-Balaídos, where they have won four of their five matches in the competition this season. While Lyon topped the league phase, they have recently struggled across all competitions, managing only two wins in their last five matches. Celta’s success against French opposition already this season—including 2-1 victories over both Nice and Lille—suggests they have the tactical blueprint to exploit Lyon's current defensive vulnerabilities.