The Champions League is set for an electrifying all-British showdown as Aston Villa vs Celtic takes center stage at Villa Park. Both teams have already secured a spot in the knockout phase, but they are still fighting for automatic qualification to the last 16. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and this historic first-ever competitive meeting between the two former European champions promises fireworks.
Aston Villa have enjoyed a strong run in the Champions League, but they are not yet guaranteed direct passage to the last 16. A victory over Celtic on Wednesday will cement their place in the next round without the hassle of a playoff battle.
However, injuries are causing headaches for Unai Emery. Tyrone Mings, Pau Torres, and Diego Carlos are all unavailable, leaving Villa’s backline vulnerable. Lucas Digne is expected to slot in at center-back, adding an element of uncertainty to their defense. Midfielders Amadou Onana and Ross Barkley are also sidelined, further limiting Emery’s options.
Despite these challenges, Villa will count on Ollie Watkins, Leon Bailey, and Jacob Ramsey to deliver the goals. With the passionate home crowd behind them, they will be eager to secure a vital three points.
Celtic enter this match in strong form, having gone unbeaten in their last five games. The Scottish champions need a win to improve their chances of automatic qualification, though they also depend on other results across Europe.
Unfortunately, Celtic have suffered a blow with the departure of Kyogo Furuhashi to Rennes. The prolific striker had been their main attacking threat, and his absence leaves a significant gap in the team. Daizen Maeda is also suspended, further weakening Celtic’s attacking options.
However, returning star Jota will be a massive boost for Brendan Rodgers’ side, though he is ineligible for this fixture. In his absence, Adam Idah, Palma, and Kuhn will be the key attacking players tasked with breaking down Villa’s makeshift defense.
RECOMMENDED:
Match Details – When & Where to Watch
- Date: Wednesday, 29 January 2025
- Kick-Off Time: 20:00 GMT / 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT
- Location: Villa Park, Birmingham, England
- Referee: Clement Turpin (France)
- VAR: Jerome Brisard (France)
Where to Watch:
- UK: TNT Sports 1, TNT Sports Ultimate, Discovery+
- US: Paramount+, ViX
- Canada: DAZN Canada
Head-to-Head Record & Recent Form
This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between Aston Villa vs Celtic. However, both teams have been tested against top opposition in their domestic and European campaigns.
Recent Form – Aston Villa:
- 1-1 vs West Ham (26/01/25)
- ❌ 0-1 vs Monaco (21/01/25)
- 2-2 vs Arsenal (18/01/25)
- ✅ 1-0 vs Everton (15/01/25)
- ✅ 2-1 vs West Ham (10/01/25)
Recent Form – Celtic:
- ✅ 1-0 vs Young Boys (22/01/25)
- ✅ 2-1 vs Kilmarnock (18/01/25)
- 3-3 vs Dundee (14/01/25)
- ✅ 4-1 vs Ross County (11/01/25)
- ✅ 2-0 vs Dundee United (08/01/25)
Aston Villa & Celtic Team News – Who’s In & Who’s Out?
Aston Villa’s Key Absentees:
Out: Tyrone Mings, Pau Torres, Diego Carlos, Amadou Onana, Ross Barkley
Returning: John McGinn (likely to play a substitute role)
Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Digne, Maatsen; Tielemans, Kamara; Bailey, Rogers, Ramsey; Watkins.
Celtic’s Key Absentees:
Out: Kyogo Furuhashi (transferred), James Forrest (injury)
⛔ Suspended: Daizen Maeda
Predicted Lineup (4-3-3):
Schmeichel; Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Trusty, Taylor; Engels, McGregor, Hatate; Kuhn, Idah, Palma.
JamboBet Expert Prediction & Betting Tips – Where to Place Your Bet
JamboBet is offering incredible odds on this must-win Champions League clash. Villa’s home advantage and attacking depth make them favorites, but Celtic’s resilience shouldn’t be overlooked.
Expert Betting Tips:
- Aston Villa to win – 1.85 odds on JamboBet
- Both Teams to Score (BTTS) – 1.70 odds on JamboBet
- Over 2.5 Goals – 1.90 odds on JamboBet
- Ollie Watkins to Score Anytime – 2.20 odds on JamboBet
Predicted Score: Aston Villa 2-1 Celtic
With JamboBet, you can maximize your returns on this thrilling encounter. Place your bets today and take advantage of exclusive Champions League promotions!
