UEFA Europa League: Celtic host Besiktas in crucial group stage clash

match details and competition context

On Thursday, 5 November 2026, Celtic will host Besiktas at Celtic Park, Glasgow, in a UEFA Europa League League Phase fixture. The match kicks off at 20:00 UTC, with the stakes high as both sides look to improve their standing in the group. This encounter is part of the group stage where every point counts towards progression or elimination.

standings and group situation

Currently, Besiktas sit comfortably in the promotion places in the Europa League group, positioned 8th with 7 points from 3 matches. They have won twice and drawn once, scoring 9 goals and conceding 5, giving them a positive goal difference of 4. In contrast, Celtic find themselves in a difficult spot, positioned 35th in the group standings with no points from their three matches so far. They have lost all three games, scoring 3 goals but conceding 9, resulting in a goal difference of minus 6. Celtic are effectively in the relegation zone in this phase, making this home match crucial to their chances of staying competitive in the competition. The points gap between the teams stands at 7, reflecting the challenge Celtic face to catch up.

recent form and performance

In their last five games across all competitions, Celtic have recorded two wins, one draw, and two losses. Their results include a commanding 7-1 home win against Heart of Midlothian on 18 October, followed by a 1-2 home loss to Celta Vigo on 22 October. More recently, they drew 2-2 at home with Dundee United on 28 October but were defeated 0-2 away by Falkirk on 1 November. These results show a team capable of scoring goals, averaging 2.4 per game, but vulnerable defensively, conceding 1.6 per match. Besiktas have also displayed mixed form, with two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five games. Highlights include a 3-2 away win at TSG Hoffenheim on 15 October and a 2-0 home victory against Istanbul Basaksehir on 26 October. Their recent matches also saw draws against Kasimpasa (2-2) and Crystal Palace (2-2), and a 0-2 away defeat to Trabzonspor. Besiktas average 1.8 goals scored and 1.6 conceded per game, indicating a balanced but competitive side.

head-to-head and expectations

This fixture marks another chapter in the competitive relationship between Celtic and Besiktas. Given Celtic’s current position without points and Besiktas’ unbeaten record in the group phase, the visitors could approach the match with confidence. However, Celtic’s home advantage at Celtic Park and their recent ability to score goals suggest they could pose a threat to Besiktas’ defensive line. The match could be pivotal for Celtic to gain their first points, while Besiktas will aim to consolidate their lead in the group and maintain their promotion zone status.

broadcast information

For viewers in the United States, the match will be available live on Paramount+. Fans will be able to follow the action as it unfolds from 20:00 UTC. This coverage ensures that supporters of both teams and general football fans can watch this important Europa League encounter live.

Where the teams stand

Recent form