Europa League: what are the stakes on the first matchday?

Here we go with the Europa League! Season 2024-2025 starts on 25 September, and there are some awesome games to follow right from the kick-off. We’ll be going over the key fixtures in this round 1 in this article. Strap in for football excitement with our predictions for most likely winners here!

Galatasaray vs PAOK

25/09 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Galatasaray

Turkey meets Greece: always cause for animosity! This is a fairly lopsided fixture, though: count on Galatasaray to keep the 3 points at home.

Manchester United vs Twente

25/09 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Manchester United

Eredivisie side Twente will be excited to play against Manchester United at Old Trafford, but a victory for the home team feels a no-brainer.

OGC Nice vs Real Sociedad

25/09 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: OGC Nice

This could prove to be a fascinating game between two teams of about equal strength. We predict the home team to win this, though.

Anderlecht vs Ferencváros

25/09 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Anderlecht

Belgian Pro League powerhouse Anderlecht sees action against Ferencváros. It’s a feasible prey, especially in front of the Mauve Army.

Fenerbahçe vs Union Saint-Gilloise

26/09 6.45 p.m.

Most likely to win: Fenerbahçe

Fenerbahçe has years of experience in the European club circuit. USG, new to this level, is unlikely to pull off a stunt here.

AS Roma vs Athletic Bilbao

26/09 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: AS Roma

Italy’s Serie A mainstay AS Roma knows how to play against European teams. The Basques will put up a fight, but ultimately the Romans will win.

Ajax vs Beşiktaş

26/09 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Ajax

Ajax is crawling back to its glory days after years of turmoil. With a victory against Turkish side Beşiktaş, it’ll make a point to its contenders.

Olympique Lyonnais vs Olympiacos

26/09 9 p.m.

Most likely to win: Olympique Lyonnais

In this “Olympic” encounter, it may be best to put faith in the bigger domestic league: Ligue 1 team Lyon should beat the Greek side.