Vigo, Spain – As the lights go dim at Estadio Abanca-Balaídos, Celta Vigo and OGC Nice go head-to-head for their Europa League round 3 showdown this Thursday, October 23, 2025. With the home team looking to finally spike their form and the French visitors hungry to turn their luck around, this match promises plenty of drama (and maybe a few mishaps because, you know, that’s football!).
Celta Vigo, having last participated in European competition back in 2016-17, hold a 1-1 draw record at home while looking to shake off their La Liga blues where they haven’t won any of their last nine matches (D7, L2). They seem to have an affinity for draws lately (next time someone asks you about heartbreak, just tell them to watch Celta).
The last match saw them squirm away with yet another 1-1 against Real Sociedad. They even took the lead thanks to Pablo Duran, but you know how it goes – a red card can turn your dreams into a nightmare real quick. With a couple of key injuries rocking the squad, including doubts surrounding forward Borja Iglesias, they might have to rely on newcomers or some surprise heroes to step up.
On the flip side, OGC Nice are coming into this match with their own baggage after dropping down from the Champions League this season – wahala no dey finish o! They began their Europa League journey with two painful losses against Roma and Fenerbahce. Who dey feel dem for all that wahala? But just when you thought Nice can’t catch a break, they snatched a thrilling win against Lyon, which has reignited their spirits (just like when you finally hit paydirt after searching for that one lone palm nut).
Nice will be eager to flip the script in this match as they’ve been finding it hard to snag any victories on the road, losing four of their five outings (D1) this season. Meanwhile, they’ll be hoping their attack, with players like Sofiane Diop shining bright in front of the goal, can pierce through Celta’s defense. Sounds easy, right? Only time go tell!
Both teams have had their share of woes, but they will bring the fire as they fight for points in this crucial fixture. Celta’s hope hinges on stopping Nice at home, where they’ve had considerable success – just look at their unblemished profile in Europa League matches at Balaidos recently.
So, should you grab your popcorn and tune in? Big yes! If Celta want to avoid leaving with just the draw (again), they’ll need their home supporters to be loud and proud, and perhaps sprinkle a little magic dust on the pitch. In the end, expect a heated contest that might just end in yet another 1-1 draw. Who knows, these teams love to keep us at the edge of our seats!
Do you have a news tip for NNN? Please email us at editor@nnn.ng
