Ludogorets Razgrad vs Celta Vigo: Prediction, Team News, Lineups

Ludogorets Razgrad faces a significant challenge on Thursday evening as they host Celta Vigo at the Huvepharma Arena in the Europa League. This match is part of the fifth round of the league-phase fixtures.

Ludogorets Razgrad vs Celta Vigo: Match Preview

Ludogorets Razgrad has struggled this season to convert their domestic success into European achievements. They currently sit low in the Europa League standings, having secured only one win from four matches. With three losses and a goal difference of -4 (five goals scored, nine conceded), the team’s performance has raised concerns.

In their last European encounter, Ludogorets suffered a 3-1 defeat against Ferencvaros. Despite this, they displayed resilience in their latest league match, securing a 2-0 victory over Septemvri Sofia. Overall, their form remains inconsistent, with two wins, one draw, and two losses from the last five matches.

This upcoming fixture marks the first under new head coach Per-Mathias Hogmo, who took over from Rui Mota following a string of disappointing results in Europe. Hogmo will aim to revitalize the team and restore confidence ahead of this critical clash.

Celta Vigo’s Strong Position

In stark contrast, Celta Vigo has performed exceptionally well in the Europa League this season, amassing nine points from four matches. Their record includes three wins and only one defeat, boasting a goal difference of +5 after scoring nine goals and conceding four.

Their recent performance includes a commanding 3-0 victory against Dinamo Zagreb, showcasing their attacking prowess and solid defense. Celta has shown confidence in their away games, having achieved one win and one loss in two European outings. They have developed a progressive, attack-oriented style under coach Claudio Giraldez, characterized by high pressing and quick passing.

Team News

Ludogorets Razgrad Updates

• Edvin Kurtulus is out with a knee injury.
• Georgi Terziev is sidelined due to a cruciate ligament injury.
• Caio Vidal must avoid another yellow card to prevent suspension.

Expected lineup: Bonmann; Son, Nachmias, Almeida, Nedyalkov; Naressi; Duarte, Stanic, Chochev, Vidal; Bile.

Celta Vigo Updates

• Carl Starfelt is unavailable due to a muscle injury.
• Franco Cervi and Manu Fernandez are both dealing with muscle issues.
• Carlos Dominguez is sidelined with a thigh injury, and Williot Swedberg is a doubt.

Expected lineup: Radu; Alonso, Mingueza, Rodriguez; Carreira, Roman Gonzalez, Beltran, Rueda; Zaragoza, Duran, Aspas.

Match Prediction

Considering the current form and challenges faced by both teams, it is anticipated that Ludogorets Razgrad may struggle against Celta Vigo. The strong performance from Celta in the European league suggests they could win this encounter comfortably. A predicted scoreline of 2-0 in favor of Celta appears plausible, given Ludogorets’ defensive vulnerabilities.

As they enter this match, Ludogorets must find a way to leverage their home advantage while addressing their defensive issues to avoid early elimination from the competition.