UEFA Europa League Betting: Top Games & Picks Matchday 1

With domestic leagues across Europe now in full swing, it’s time to turn attention to the cup competitions.

The Champions League kicked off last week; this week the UEFA Europa League takes center stage.

Below are our top Matchday 1 games with quick predictions.

Note: most fixtures are on Thursday, but some are on Wednesday this week.

Nice vs Roma — Wednesday

The opening round often brings cagey affairs as clubs try not to fall behind early.

Nice have been inconsistent out of the gate at 2–3, while Roma have won four of their last five (one loss, one draw).

Roma’s last four have all finished 1–0, suggesting goals could be at a premium.

Pick: Under 2.5 goals.

Prediction: Nice 1–1 Roma

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Real Betis vs Nottingham Forest — Wednesday

Arguably the pick of Wednesday’s slate.

Betis ride momentum after a 3–1 LaLiga win and are typically tough at home.

Forest, coming off a managerial shake-up and struggling for form, could be vulnerable on the road.

Expect chances for the hosts and an open game flow.

Prediction: Real Betis 3–1 Nottingham Forest

Aston Villa vs Bologna — Thursday

Villa’s start has been rocky (three points from five in the league) relative to top-four expectations, but a positive European result can reset the narrative.

Bologna are coming off a win, yet away fixtures have been an Achilles’ heel.

Tight margins, slight edge to the home side.

Prediction: Aston Villa 1–0 Bologna

Stuttgart vs Celta Vigo — Thursday

Bundesliga vs LaLiga ties rarely disappoint.

Stuttgart have won two of their last three, including a 2–0 at the weekend.

Celta’s last five have all finished 1–1, making the draw tempting—but the lean is to the hosts in a close contest.

Prediction: Stuttgart 2–1 Celta Vigo

**Matchday 1 – Quick Picks**
Fixture	Day	Pick / Angle	Score Pred.
Nice vs Roma	Wed	Under 2.5	1–1
Real Betis vs Nottingham Forest	Wed	Betis win / Over lean	3–1
Aston Villa vs Bologna	Thu	Villa win (low-scoring)	1–0
Stuttgart vs Celta Vigo	Thu	Stuttgart win (close)	2–1

Lines and schedules may change; check your sportsbook for the latest markets.

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About the Author

Henry Watkins
Henry is originally from Scotland but now resides in Metro Atlanta with his chef wife Penny. As well as working as a Sports freelance writer, he also writes horror fiction. Watson is the author of Karaoke Night, Crueller, and Off The Grid.