Key Highlights to Watch for Europa League Matchday 8
The 2025/26 UEFA Europa League is entering a crucial phase, with key teams fighting for the last five knockout spots. Matchday 8 offers several critical fixtures, each with its own storylines and stakes.
Key Highlights to Watch for Europa League Matchday 8
Latest Standings and Fixtures
As Matchday 8 kicks off at 21:00 CET, the following matches are set to unfold:
- Aston Villa vs. Salzburg
- Celtic vs. Utrecht
- Porto vs. Rangers
- Basel vs. Viktoria Plzeň
- Midtjylland vs. GNK Dinamo
- Crvena Zvezda vs. Celta
- FCSB vs. Fenerbahçe
- Go Ahead Eagles vs. Braga
- Genk vs. Malmö
- Lille vs. Freiburg
- Maccabi Tel-Aviv vs. Bologna
- Nottingham Forest vs. Ferencváros
- Lyon vs. PAOK
- Panathinaikos vs. Roma
- Ludogorets vs. Nice
- Real Betis vs. Feyenoord
- Sturm Graz vs. Brann
- Stuttgart vs. Young Boys
Standout Fixtures
Aston Villa vs. Salzburg
Aston Villa has secured its round of 16 spot and will look to maintain momentum after a recent win over Fenerbahçe. In contrast, Salzburg is seeking an essential victory to bolster its chances, currently sitting in 28th place.
Notably, this marks the first competitive meeting between the two sides. Salzburg has struggled against English teams, having recorded no wins in eight attempts.
Panathinaikos vs. Roma
Roma has reached fourth place after a strong showing against Stuttgart. Their player, Niccolò Pisilli, scored twice and emphasized the importance of their next game against Panathinaikos. Meanwhile, Panathinaikos has secured its knockout phase entry with a draw against Ferencváros, aiming to improve from its current 19th position.
The history is in Panathinaikos’ favor, as they won both encounters in the 2009/10 round of 32 against Roma.
Nottingham Forest vs. Ferencváros
Nottingham Forest is determined to secure a win after a setback against Braga. Currently sitting seventh, they need to show improved performance to keep playoff hopes alive. Ferencváros, meanwhile, aspires to protect its top-eight standing while aiming for an unbeaten phase.
Real Betis vs. Feyenoord
Real Betis currently occupies the final top-eight spot. They aim for redemption following a defeat to PAOK, while Feyenoord, fresh off a victory, seeks to climb the standings and advance past the knockout phase.
Feyenoord has demonstrated offensive prowess, scoring three goals in their last two matches.
Other Notable Matches
Lyon also aims to secure a top spot while facing PAOK. Other teams vying for the remaining knockout places include GNK Dinamo, Lille, Young Boys, Celtic, Ludogorets, and others. Meanwhile, Viktoria Plzeň looks to end its streak of four consecutive draws as they visit Basel.
With so much at stake, Matchday 8 promises thrilling football and pivotal moments for the teams involved. Stay tuned to Filmogaz.com for coverage of the Europa League as the knockout stage approaches.
