Celta Vigo vs Levante Prediction, Match Preview, Tuesday, May 12th
Celta Vigo will face off against Levante in a LaLiga clash on Tuesday, May 12th. The match will take place at the Abanca Balaídos, where Celta Vigo will look to capitalise on their home advantage. Both teams are eager to secure crucial points as the season progresses, making this an important fixture in the league.
Celta Vigo and Levante have shown varying forms this season, and this encounter could be pivotal in shaping their respective standings in LaLiga. With the match being held at Abanca Balaídos, Celta Vigo will aim to leverage their familiarity with the venue to outmanoeuvre Levante. As the teams prepare to meet, fans can expect a competitive display of football.
Celta Vigo vs Levante Prediction & Betting tip
| Betting Tip | Odds |
|---|---|
| Both Teams to Score – Yes | 1.83 |
Considering both teams’ attacking prowess and defensive vulnerabilities, our recommended betting tip is ‘Both Teams to Score’. Celta Vigo have shown a strong ability to find the net at home, particularly through Brais Méndez and Iago Aspas. Levante’s recent form and offensive threats, including Carlos Espí and Iván Romero, suggest they are more than capable of scoring as well. The likelihood of both teams conceding, especially under wet conditions, makes this a solid bet.
- Celta Vigo have scored in 82% of their home matches this season, showcasing their consistent offensive threat.
- Levante have netted in the majority of their recent games, bolstered by top scorer Carlos Espí.
- Both teams have a history of high-scoring encounters, further supporting the ‘Both Teams to Score’ bet.
Betting Odds
Celta Vigo are stepping into this LaLiga clash as the favourites, with betting odds reflecting their stronger home form. Levante, on the other hand, are seen as the underdogs, but their odds could tempt those looking for a potential upset.
| Betting Tip | Odds |
|---|---|
| Celta Vigo to win | 1.74 |
| Draw | 3.9 |
| Levante to win | 4.41 |
The draw is also an interesting option, given the competitive nature of these encounters. For those eyeing the goals market, consider both teams to score, as Levante have shown they can find the net even against tougher opponents.
Celta Vigo Analysis & Past Performance
Celta Vigo’s form has been inconsistent in recent matches, with two wins and three losses in their last five games, highlighting a mixed performance trend. Their recent outing against Atlético Madrid ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat, despite showing resilience with limited possession (44%) and managing only three shots compared to Atlético’s 20.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result | Competition | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atletico Madrid | Celta Vigo | 0 – 1 (Win) | LaLiga | 9 May 2026 |
| Celta Vigo | Elche | 3 – 1 (Win) | LaLiga | 3 May 2026 |
| Villarreal | Celta Vigo | 2 – 1 (Loss) | LaLiga | 26 Apr 2026 |
| Barcelona | Celta Vigo | 1 – 0 (Loss) | LaLiga | 22 Apr 2026 |
| Celta Vigo | Freiburg | 1 – 3 (Loss) | Europa League Final Stage | 16 Apr 2026 |
Recent Form:
Celta Vigo have scored an average of 1.20 goals per game over their last five matches, totalling six goals, while conceding an average of 1.40, with seven goals against. Notably, they have managed to score in four out of their last five games, but defensive vulnerabilities are evident with only one clean sheet during this period, indicating a need for defensive tightening to improve their clean sheet ratio of 20%.
In terms of home performance, Celta Vigo have struggled, winning just one of their last five home fixtures, with a win ratio of 20%. This reflects their overall home form this season, which stands at a 40% win ratio from 10 home matches. Their standings in the league are reflective of these challenges, currently positioned sixth with 50 points, indicating a ‘Mid Top’ rating but with room for improvement to solidify their league position further.
- WWLLL
Celta Vigo Suspensions & Injuries
Celta Vigo face a challenging situation with several key players unavailable due to injuries. The absence of Matías Vecino, sidelined with a muscle injury until mid-May, will particularly impact the midfield’s dynamism and depth. His ability to control the tempo and provide defensive cover is missed, and Celta will need to rely heavily on the young Ilaix Moriba to fill that gap. With Carl Starfelt out with a back injury until late May, the defensive line remains vulnerable, putting additional pressure on Javi Rodríguez and Yoel Lago to maintain stability at the back.
Jaime Vázquez’s groin injury, with no clear return date, adds to Celta Vigo’s ongoing challenges in maintaining squad rotation and depth, especially in the attacking third. Without Miguel Román, who is out for the season with a metatarsal fracture, Celta’s options are further limited, necessitating tactical adjustments from coach Claudio Giráldez.
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Jaime Vázquez | groin strain | Unknown |
| Miguel Román | broken metatarsal | Out for season |
| Carl Starfelt | back injury | Late May 2026 |
| Matías Vecino | muscle injury | Mid May 2026 |
The injuries necessitate a tactical rethink for Celta Vigo, likely maintaining their 3-4-2-1 formation but requiring players like Fer López and Óscar Mingueza to adopt more versatile roles. The tactical impact is significant, with potential shifts in player responsibilities and positioning to cover the gaps left by the injured players. This situation could influence betting markets, as Celta’s weakened squad might affect their odds against Levante.
Celta Vigo Key Players
Celta Vigo’s attack will be spearheaded by Borja Iglesias, the team’s top scorer with 14 goals this season. Iglesias is known for his clinical finishing and intelligent positioning, making him a constant threat to Levante’s defence. His ability to hold up play and bring teammates into the game is crucial for Celta’s attacking dynamics.
In the midfield, Ilaix Moriba and Williot Swedberg stand out as key players. Moriba’s vision and passing range allow him to orchestrate play from deep, while Swedberg’s energy and forward runs add a different dimension to Celta’s playmaking. Defensively, Marcos Alonso brings experience and leadership to the backline, ensuring stability and composure.
Expected lineup for Celta Vigo:
- Goalkeeper: Ionuț Andrei Radu
- Defence: Javi Rodríguez, Yoel Lago, Marcos Alonso
- Midfield: Álvaro Núñez, Fer López, Ilaix Moriba, Óscar Mingueza, Pablo Durán, Williot Swedberg
- Forward: Borja Iglesias
Celta Vigo Tactics and Formation
Celta Vigo Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 3-4-2-1
- Key Forward: Borja Iglesias
- Midfield Engine: Ilaix Moriba and Fer López
- Defensive Setup: Three-man defence with an emphasis on central solidity
- Recent Performance: Struggled to maintain clean sheets with one in the last five games.
Celta Vigo’s 3-4-2-1 formation provides a robust structure with three central defenders, Javi Rodríguez, Yoel Lago, and Marcos Alonso, tasked with maintaining defensive solidity. This setup is complemented by the midfield’s dynamic duo, Ilaix Moriba and Fer López, who are vital in transitioning play from defence to attack.
Defensively, the absence of Carl Starfelt due to injury might force Celta Vigo to rely on the versatility of Óscar Mingueza in a more defensive role. This could challenge their ability to keep clean sheets, as evidenced by their recent struggles in conceding goals.
Offensively, Borja Iglesias is pivotal as the focal point of attack, supported by creative midfielders Pablo Durán and Williot Swedberg. Despite their low possession stats, their counter-attacking strategy, led by Iglesias, aims to exploit gaps in opposition defences.
Levante Analysis & Past Performance
Levante’s recent form has been a mixed bag, with a record of three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five matches. The team managed to secure a crucial 3-2 victory against Osasuna in their latest encounter, demonstrating their attacking capabilities.
| Home Side | Away Side | Outcome | League | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Levante | Osasuna | 3 – 2 (Win) | LaLiga | 8 May 2026 |
| Villarreal | Levante | 5 – 1 (Loss) | LaLiga | 2 May 2026 |
| Espanyol | Levante | 0 – 0 (Draw) | LaLiga | 27 Apr 2026 |
| Levante | Sevilla | 2 – 0 (Win) | LaLiga | 23 Apr 2026 |
| Levante | Getafe | 1 – 0 (Win) | LaLiga | 13 Apr 2026 |
Recent Form:
- WLDWW
Levante’s attack has shown potential, averaging 1.40 goals per match in their last five games. Defensively, they have conceded an average of 1.40 goals per game, highlighting a need for improved defensive solidity. Despite keeping three clean sheets during this period, their away form remains a concern, with no wins in their last five outings on the road.
Levante Suspensions & Injuries
Levante will be without the services of Alejandro Primo and Carlos Álvarez for the rest of the season, as both players are sidelined with long-term injuries. Primo’s absence may not significantly alter the team’s dynamics given his limited appearances, but Álvarez’s thigh injury could impact Levante’s midfield options. Meanwhile, Iván Romero is expected to return by mid-May, which could provide a timely boost to the squad if they progress further.
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Alejandro Primo | shoulder injury | Out for season |
| Carlos Álvarez | thigh injury | Out for season |
| Iván Romero | knee injury | Mid May 2026 |
With Iván Romero potentially returning soon, Levante’s coach Luis Castro might still have to rely on the current lineup to maintain stability. The starting lineup remains largely intact, which should help Levante maintain their tactical shape and cohesion. However, the lack of depth due to these injuries might force Castro to be cautious with substitutions and tactical shifts during the match.
The unavailability of these players could influence Levante’s betting odds, as the team might appear less equipped to handle intense matches without adequate replacements. Nevertheless, with their core starting lineup intact, Levante should still present a formidable challenge to Celta Vigo.
Levante Key Players
Levante will rely heavily on Carlos Espí, their top scorer with nine goals this season, to spearhead the attack against Celta Vigo. Espí’s ability to find the back of the net with precision and his knack for exploiting defensive errors make him a pivotal figure in Levante’s offensive strategy. Positioned as the lone forward, he will look to capitalise on any opportunity presented by the midfield.
In midfield, the creative prowess of Pablo Martínez and Jon Olasagasti will be instrumental. Martínez’s vision and passing accuracy are vital for unlocking defences, while Olasagasti’s energy and ball-winning abilities provide balance. Defensive solidity will be managed by Mathew Ryan in goal, whose shot-stopping skills are crucial, alongside defenders like Jeremie Toljan, known for his overlapping runs and defensive acumen.
Expected lineup for Levante
- Goalkeeper: Mathew Ryan
- Defence: Manuel Sánchez, Jeremie Toljan, Matías Moreno, Adrián De La Fuente
- Midfield: Víctor García, Oriol Rey, Jon Olasagasti, Kareem Tunde, Pablo Martínez
- Forward: Carlos Espí
The interplay between these key players will shape Levante’s tactical approach, focusing on a solid defence and quick transitions to support Espí. The combination of strategic midfield play and robust defence could prove decisive against Celta Vigo’s attack.
Levante Tactics and Formation
Levante Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-2-3-1
- Key Forward: Carlos Espí
- Midfield Pivot: Víctor García and Oriol Rey
- Defensive Strength: Clean sheets in 60% of the last five games
- Notable Strategy: Emphasis on possession-based play and high shot volume.
Levante’s 4-2-3-1 formation allows them to maintain a structured approach both offensively and defensively. With Víctor García and Oriol Rey as the midfield pivot, they aim to control possession and dictate the tempo of the game. This duo is vital for transitioning the ball from defence to attack, supporting the creative efforts of Jon Olasagasti and Kareem Tunde in advanced midfield roles.
Defensively, the backline of Manuel Sánchez, Jeremie Toljan, Matías Moreno, and Adrián De La Fuente provides a solid foundation, complemented by Mathew Ryan in goal. Their ability to maintain clean sheets in three of their last five matches underscores their defensive stability.
Offensively, Levante rely heavily on Carlos Espí, their top scorer, to convert the high volume of shots they generate. Their strategy often involves retaining possession, as evidenced by their 63% possession in their last match, and creating numerous opportunities, demonstrated by 35 shots taken against Osasuna.
Celta Vigo vs Levante H2H Record
Celta Vigo have the upper hand in the head-to-head record against Levante, with 13 wins compared to Levante’s 6, and 6 matches ending in a draw. The last encounter saw Celta Vigo clinch a 2-1 victory away at Levante in LaLiga, showcasing their recent dominance in this fixture.
The last time Celta Vigo hosted Levante at Abanca Balaídos, the match ended in a 1-1 draw back in February 2022. Historically, Celta have been strong at home, and their recent performances suggest they might continue this trend.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result | Competition | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Levante | Celta Vigo | 1 – 2 | LaLiga | 2025-11-02 |
| Celta Vigo | Levante | 1 – 1 | LaLiga | 2022-02-21 |
| Levante | Celta Vigo | 0 – 2 | LaLiga | 2021-09-21 |
| Celta Vigo | Levante | 2 – 0 | LaLiga | 2021-04-30 |
| Levante | Celta Vigo | 1 – 1 | LaLiga | 2020-10-26 |
