Europa League League Phase Ends in High Drama as Play-Off Picture Emerges

Posted : 30 January 2026

The 2025–26 Europa League league phase came to a gripping conclusion on its final matchday, with clubs across Europe battling for progression, positioning and survival. With play-off qualification and seeding on the line, the night delivered intensity, tactical adjustments and decisive goals that underlined the competition’s growing competitiveness.

At Villa Park, Aston Villa produced one of the standout performances of the evening, overturning an early deficit to defeat RB Salzburg 3–2. Salzburg’s sharp start briefly put the hosts on the back foot, but Villa responded with greater attacking fluidity and urgency as the match wore on. Goals from Morgan Rogers and Tyrone Mings set the platform before academy prospect Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba struck late to complete another dramatic comeback, highlighting Villa’s ability to finish strongly under pressure.

Celtic also enjoyed a memorable night at home, overcoming Utrecht 4–2 to confirm their place in the next round. The Scottish side seized control early with quick goals that established momentum, though Utrecht remained dangerous on the break. Celtic’s composure in possession and efficiency from set-pieces and the penalty spot ultimately proved decisive, giving them confidence heading into the play-offs.

Nottingham Forest delivered one of the most convincing results of the round with a dominant 4–0 victory over Ferencváros. Forest’s high tempo and attacking precision left the visitors struggling to settle, as key attacking contributions ensured the hosts cruised to a statement win that places them among the form teams ahead of February’s knockout ties.

Lyon secured top spot in their group with a 4–2 win against PAOK, demonstrating control and maturity despite an early scare. The French side took full advantage after PAOK were reduced to ten men, using smart midfield rotation and width to dictate the contest and close the league phase in commanding fashion.

Real Betis also boosted their standing with a crucial 2–1 victory over Feyenoord. Early attacking sharpness gave Betis control, with winger Antony playing a pivotal role in unlocking the defence. Although Feyenoord applied late pressure, Betis’ disciplined pressing and game management ensured they finished the phase strongly.

Elsewhere, Porto overcame Rangers 3–1 with a balanced performance, Bologna impressed in a 3–0 away win at Maccabi Tel-Aviv, and Genk edged Malmö in a tight encounter. Viktoria Plzeň claimed a narrow win over Basel, Midtjylland controlled their match against Dinamo Zagreb, Stuttgart edged Young Boys in a late thriller, while FCSB and Fenerbahçe shared the points in a hard-fought draw.

As the league phase draws to a close, group winners such as Lyon gain a significant advantage in the knockout draw, while strong finishes from Aston Villa, Celtic, Nottingham Forest and Real Betis provide momentum heading into the play-offs. For others, attention now turns back to domestic competitions after a dramatic and high-quality European finale.

Europa League League Phase Ends in High Drama as Play-Off Picture Emerges

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