PAOK vs Celta Vigo Prediction 19.02.2026 | UEFA Europa League

PAOK FC approach this high-profile European showdown in outstanding domestic form, buoyed by a commanding 2-0 victory over Panathinaikos that strengthened their pursuit of the Super League crown. Currently sitting third, just three points behind leaders AEK with a game in hand, the Thessaloniki side remain firmly in the title conversation.

Under the guidance of Romanian tactician Razvan Lucescu, Toumba Stadium has become a true fortress. The Double-Headed Eagles have not tasted defeat at home since February 2025, and they remain unbeaten on their own turf this season, compiling an impressive 16 wins and five draws.

While defensive frailties were exposed during the Europa League league phase, where they conceded 14 goals in eight matches, the Black-Whites have shown marked improvement in recent weeks. They have tightened up considerably at the back, recording four consecutive shutouts across all competitions and restoring belief in their defensive structure.

However, Lucescu faces significant selection concerns ahead of the first leg. Influential playmaker Giannis Konstantelias and leading marksman Georgios Giakoumakis are both suspended, leaving a sizeable void in the attacking department and forcing tactical adjustments for this crucial European encounter.

Travelling to the intimidating Toumba Stadium, Celta Vigo arrive amid a worrying dip in form, having failed to win any of their last five outings across all competitions (D3 L2) — a run that has clearly dented both confidence and momentum within the squad.

While they may draw encouragement from their earlier-season meeting with PAOK FC, where they claimed an impressive 3-1 victory, the Galician side’s recent performances on the road offer little cause for optimism. The Celestes have managed to secure maximum points in just one of their last seven away fixtures, highlighting their ongoing struggles outside their own ground.

The Spanish outfit will be determined to halt their four-game winless run on the road and take a decisive step toward the next round ahead of the return leg on home soil. However, the side led by Claudio Giráldez must overcome their recent inconsistencies if they are to produce a meaningful result in Thursday’s demanding encounter.

There is, at least, some positive news on the team front. Álvaro Núñez remains the only confirmed absentee as he continues to recover from a groin injury, leaving the head coach with an otherwise fully available squad and the opportunity to field his strongest possible lineup for this crucial European clash.