Red Star Belgrade vs Lille: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups Preview

Red Star Belgrade is set to host Lille at the Rajko Mitic Stadium on a decisive Thursday evening, as both teams vie for a spot in the Europa League round of 16. Red Star secured a narrow 1-0 victory in the first leg, providing them with a vital advantage ahead of the second match.

Match Preview

Red Star Belgrade is on the verge of advancing to the last 16 of the Europa League for the first time since 2022. Under the leadership of Dejan Stankovic, they are currently unbeaten in six competitive matches, with a perfect defensive record in their last three games. They have been prolific in attack, netting 19 goals across six matches in October.

At home, Red Star boasts an impressive record. They are unbeaten in their last four home matches, excluding friendlies, and remain undefeated in their current Europa League campaign in Serbia. Their last home game in Europe beyond the group stage saw them defeat Rangers 2-1 in 2022. However, they have yet to secure a victory against French teams at home in the tournament since 1998.

Lille’s Challenge

Lille enters this crucial match needing a win to keep their hopes alive for progressing to the last 16 of the tournament for the first time since 2010. They recently bounced back from a challenging defeat by winning 1-0 against Angers in Ligue 1, marking their first away victory in 2026.

A win on Thursday would break their streak of three consecutive losses in Europa League away matches. Historically, Lille has struggled in knockout ties without a victory in the first leg this century.

Previous Encounters

The last two-legged affair Lille had in Serbia ended positively, with a 2-0 win against Sloboda Uzice in the 2009 Europa League qualifying rounds. Their task this time will be much tougher against a resilient Red Star Belgrade team.

Team News

Red Star will be without winger Vladimir Lucic due to suspension. It was Franklin Tebo Uchenna who scored the decisive goal in France during the first leg, supported by a solid performance from goalkeeper Matheus Magalhaes.

On Lille’s side, several injuries could impact their lineup. Alexsandro is nursing a calf strain, while other players like Thomas Meunier and Osame Sahraoui face fitness doubts. Hamza Igamane and Ethan Mbappe Lottin are also unavailable due to injuries.

Possible Lineups

The match concludes with our prediction: Red Star Belgrade 1-0 Lille. This scoreline suggests Red Star will advance 2-0 on aggregate. Despite a favorable position, Lille’s recent form raises concerns about their ability to overturn the deficit against a strong Red Star side.