Celta Vigo will host Lyon in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League Round of 16 matchup on March 12, 2026, at Abanca Balaídos. This encounter is particularly significant as it marks the first meeting between the two clubs in major European competitions.

Celta Vigo has shown resilience in the tournament, having won both of their matches against French sides this season, defeating Nice and Lille 2-1. Historically, however, Celta Vigo has struggled against French teams, winning none of their first four major European matches against them (D2 L2).

In the knockout stages of the UEFA Europa League, Celta Vigo has a solid record, winning six out of ten matches (W6 D2 L2), although both of their losses occurred at home in first legs. They reached this stage by overcoming PAOK in the playoff round.

Lyon, on the other hand, is entering this matchup as the top seed in the competition, having won seven of their eight league phase matches to finish first with 21 points. This season, they have equaled their record for the most wins in a single major European campaign with seven victories and only one loss.

Notably, Lyon has been prolific in front of goal, scoring in each of their last 17 matches. Midfielder Adam Karabec has emerged as a key player for Lyon, contributing four goals and four assists in European play.