Celta Vigo vs Mallorca Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, 22 February
Celta Vigo will host Mallorca at the Abanca Balaídos on Sunday, 22 February, in what promises to be an intriguing LaLiga encounter. This match is crucial for both teams as they look to secure valuable points in the league standings. Celta Vigo, playing at home, will aim to leverage their familiarity with the Abanca Balaídos to gain an advantage over Mallorca.
Mallorca, on the other hand, will be keen to upset the home side and climb the LaLiga table. Both teams have shown varying form this season, making this clash a potentially unpredictable affair. As we delve into the prediction, match preview, and betting tips, the focus will be on key players and tactical approaches that could influence the outcome of this encounter.
Celta Vigo vs Mallorca Prediction & Betting Tip
| Betting Tip | Odds |
|---|---|
| Back Mallorca to win | 4.56 |
Considering the current form of both teams and historical data, our recommended betting tip is ‘Under 2.5 Goals.’ Given the recent performances of Celta Vigo and the defensive tendencies of Mallorca, this bet presents a balanced risk-reward scenario.
- Fewer than 2.5 goals have been scored in 78% of the 9 matches between these teams in the past 5 seasons.
- Celta Vigo’s recent form suggests a likelihood of a cautious approach, especially after a home defeat.
- Mallorca have been prone to conceding goals but generally keep scorelines low due to their defensive style.
With Celta Vigo struggling to secure a win in their last four matches and Mallorca conceding an average of 1.5 goals per game, a low-scoring match is likely.
Betting Odds
Celta Vigo enter this LaLiga clash as favourites, with odds of 1.83 for a home win. Mallorca, meanwhile, are considered underdogs at 4.56, suggesting a tough outing at the Abanca Balaídos. The draw is priced at 3.4, indicating a competitive match is expected.
| Betting Tip | Odds |
|---|---|
| Celta Vigo to win | 1.83 |
| Draw | 3.4 |
| Mallorca to win | 4.56 |
For those looking to place a bet, the odds suggest that backing Celta Vigo might be the safer choice, but Mallorca’s potential for an upset could offer rewarding returns. Consider the over 2.5 goals market, as both teams have shown attacking promise in recent fixtures.
Celta Vigo Analysis & Recent Performance
Celta Vigo’s recent form has been inconsistent, with only one victory in their last five matches—a 2-1 away win against PAOK Thessaloniki FC in the Europa League. Their recent LaLiga fixtures include a 2-2 draw with Espanyol and a 1-2 home defeat to Osasuna, highlighting their struggle to secure wins in the domestic league.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result | Competition | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PAOK Thessaloniki FC | Celta Vigo | 1 – 2 (Win) | Europa League Final Stage | 19 Feb 2026 |
| Espanyol | Celta Vigo | 2 – 2 (Draw) | LaLiga | 14 Feb 2026 |
| Celta Vigo | Osasuna | 1 – 2 (Loss) | LaLiga | 6 Feb 2026 |
| Getafe | Celta Vigo | 0 – 0 (Draw) | LaLiga | 1 Feb 2026 |
| FK Crvena Zvezda | Celta Vigo | 1 – 1 (Draw) | Europa League | 29 Jan 2026 |
Recent Form:
Celta Vigo have averaged 1.20 goals scored and conceded per match over their last five outings, with both teams scoring in 80% of these games. They have managed to keep just one clean sheet, indicating a vulnerability in defence. Their home form is slightly better, with 4 wins from their last 5 home games, reflecting an 80% win ratio at the Abanca Balaídos, although they suffered a recent defeat.
Celta Vigo sit 7th in LaLiga with 34 points, indicating a mid-table position. Their top scorer, Borja Iglesias, has netted 10 goals, contributing significantly to their attack. Despite their mid-table standing, Celta’s inability to maintain defensive solidity, coupled with a lack of consistent scoring, has hampered their ability to climb higher in the league rankings.
- WDLDD
Celta Vigo Suspensions & Injuries
Celta Vigo will be without several key players due to injuries, which could impact their tactical setup against Mallorca. Jaime Vázquez’s groin injury leaves uncertainty in midfield, while Álvaro Núñez is doubtful with a similar issue. Andrés Antañón and Franco Cervi, both suffering from muscle injuries, are set to miss the match, affecting Celta’s attacking options. Hugo Sotelo’s ankle injury and Joseph Aidoo’s physical discomfort further complicate matters, with their returns uncertain.
The absence of Franco Cervi and Hugo Sotelo, both crucial to Celta Vigo’s creative play, forces coach Claudio Giráldez to explore alternative strategies. With Cervi out until early March, the onus may fall on Williot Swedberg to step up, while Borja Iglesias could see more responsibility in leading the attack. The midfield will also rely heavily on Miguel Román and Fer López to maintain stability.
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Jaime Vázquez | Groin injury | Unknown |
| Álvaro Núñez | Groin injury | Doubtful |
| Andrés Antañón | Muscle injury | Late February 2026 |
| Franco Cervi | Muscle injury | Early March 2026 |
| Hugo Sotelo | Ankle injury | Early March 2026 |
| Joseph Aidoo | Physical discomfort | Doubtful |
Celta Vigo’s tactical adjustments might include a more conservative approach, with the 3-4-3 formation potentially shifting to a 3-5-2 to strengthen the midfield in the absence of key players. This could affect their attacking prowess but might provide more defensive solidity. The betting markets could see this as an opportunity for Mallorca, given Celta’s depleted squad depth.
With no suspensions impacting the squad, Celta Vigo can focus on managing their injuries. However, the lack of depth due to these injuries means that the available players must perform optimally to secure a positive result against Mallorca. The outcome of this match could hinge on how well Celta adapt to these challenges and utilise their remaining squad effectively.
Celta Vigo Key Players
Celta Vigo’s attacking threat will be led by Borja Iglesias, the team’s top scorer with 10 goals this season. Iglesias is known for his clinical finishing and intelligent positioning, making him a constant threat to opposition defences. His ability to link up with fellow forwards Ferran Jutglà and Williot Swedberg adds a dynamic edge to Celta Vigo’s offensive play, allowing for fluid interchanges and creative attacking moves.
In midfield, Fer López stands out as a key playmaker, orchestrating play with his vision and passing accuracy. His role will be crucial in transitioning the team from defence to attack, especially against a solid Mallorca side. Defensively, Carl Starfelt’s presence is vital, as his strong aerial ability and tackling skills help maintain solidity at the back. This balance between attacking prowess and defensive resilience forms the core of Celta Vigo’s tactical approach, aiming to control the game and exploit any defensive weaknesses in their opponents.
Expected lineup for Celta Vigo:
- Goalkeeper: Ionuț Andrei Radu
- Defence: Javi Rodríguez, Carl Starfelt, Marcos Alonso
- Midfield: Javi Rueda, Miguel Román, Fer López, Sergio Carreira
- Forward: Ferran Jutglà, Borja Iglesias, Williot Swedberg
Celta Vigo Tactics and Formation
Celta Vigo Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 3-4-3
- Key Forward: Borja Iglesias
- Midfield Pivot: Miguel Román and Fer López
- Defensive Structure: Three-man defence with Carl Starfelt
- Notable Strategy: Emphasis on wing play and counter-attacking.
Celta Vigo’s 3-4-3 formation is set to provide width and flexibility, especially in utilising wing-backs Javi Rueda and Sergio Carreira. The midfield pivot of Miguel Román and Fer López is crucial for both defensive coverage and initiating attacks, providing the balance needed in transition.
Offensively, Borja Iglesias remains the focal point, supported by Ferran Jutglà and Williot Swedberg. Iglesias’s physical presence and goal-scoring ability (10 goals this season) are pivotal to breaking defensive lines and creating opportunities.
Defensively, the three-man backline led by Carl Starfelt aims to offer solidity, although the team has managed only one clean sheet in their last five matches. The absence of key players like Óscar Mingueza may require tactical adjustments to maintain defensive stability.
Mallorca Analysis & Recent Performance
Mallorca’s recent form in LaLiga has been underwhelming, highlighted by their current position in the league standings at 18th with just 24 points. In their last five matches, they secured two victories against Sevilla (4-1) and Athletic Club (3-2), yet suffered defeats to Real Betis (1-2), Barcelona (0-3), and Atlético Madrid (3-0).
| Home Team | Away Team | Result | Competition | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mallorca | Real Betis | 1 – 2 (Loss) | LaLiga | 15 Feb 2026 |
| Barcelona | Mallorca | 3 – 0 (Loss) | LaLiga | 7 Feb 2026 |
| Mallorca | Sevilla | 4 – 1 (Win) | LaLiga | 2 Feb 2026 |
| Atlético Madrid | Mallorca | 3 – 0 (Loss) | LaLiga | 25 Jan 2026 |
| Mallorca | Athletic Club | 3 – 2 (Win) | LaLiga | 17 Jan 2026 |
Recent Form:
Mallorca’s offensive output has averaged 1.60 goals per game in their last five outings, indicating their potential to score. However, defensively they have been less solid, conceding an average of 2.20 goals per match and failing to keep a clean sheet in any of these games. This defensive frailty, coupled with their inability to win away games consistently—having not won any of their last five away fixtures—presents a significant challenge.
Their away form this season is particularly concerning, with only one win in 12 matches, highlighting a distinct struggle on the road. Vedat Muriqi remains a key player, having contributed significantly with 16 goals this season, emphasising his importance in their attacking play. Despite these struggles, Mallorca’s capability to score suggests potential for improvement if defensive lapses can be addressed.
- LLWLW
Mallorca Suspensions & Injuries
Mallorca face some challenges with injuries, particularly in their defensive and attacking options. Takuma Asano’s hamstring injury rules him out until early March 2026, which is a significant blow given his potential impact on the wing. This absence might force Jagoba Arrasate to rely more on Jan Virgili to step up in attacking transitions.
In defence, Marash Kumbulla’s muscle injury, with an expected return in late February 2026, leaves a gap in the centre-back options. However, with David López and Martin Valjent fit and available, Mallorca should manage to maintain their defensive solidity. Johan Mojica, listed as doubtful, could face a last-minute fitness test to determine his availability.
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Takuma Asano | Hamstring injury | Early March 2026 |
| Jan Salas | Cruciate ligament injury | Out for season |
| Marash Kumbulla | Muscle injury | Late February 2026 |
| Johan Mojica | Muscle injury | Doubtful |
The tactical impact of these injuries could see Mallorca adopting a more conservative approach, focusing on defensive stability and counter-attacking opportunities. This might slightly alter their usual 4-2-3-1 setup, potentially bringing in more midfield cover to compensate for the lack of depth up front.
From a betting perspective, these absences might influence the odds, as Mallorca may be perceived as less threatening in attack. However, their solid defensive core remains intact, which could still make them a competitive side against Celta Vigo.
Mallorca Key Players
Mallorca’s potent attack will heavily rely on Vedat Muriqi, their top scorer with 16 goals this season. Muriqi’s physical presence and precise finishing make him a constant threat in the opponent’s penalty area. His ability to hold up play and link with midfielders such as Sergi Darder could be pivotal in breaking down Celta Vigo’s defence. Darder, known for his vision and passing accuracy, will be key in orchestrating play from midfield, providing the necessary support to Muriqi.
Mallorca’s defence is anchored by Martin Valjent, whose defensive acumen and aerial ability are vital in repelling Celta Vigo’s attacks. Alongside him, Pablo Maffeo’s energy and tackling on the flanks offer both defensive solidity and attacking support.
Expected lineup for Mallorca
- Goalkeeper: Leo Román
- Defenders: Pablo Maffeo, David López, Johan Mojica, Martin Valjent
- Midfielders: Omar Mascarell, Mateo Joseph, Sergi Darder, Jan Virgili, Samu
- Forward: Vedat Muriqi
Mallorca Tactics and Formation
Mallorca Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-2-3-1
- Key Forward: Vedat Muriqi
- Midfield Pivot: Omar Mascarell and Mateo Joseph
- Defensive Challenges: No clean sheets in the last five matches
- Notable Strategy: Emphasis on possession, but vulnerable to counterattacks.
Mallorca’s 4-2-3-1 formation is designed to control the game through midfield dominance. With Omar Mascarell and Mateo Joseph in the pivot roles, they aim to dictate play while providing defensive cover. Sergi Darder, as the attacking midfielder, is pivotal in linking play and supporting Vedat Muriqi, the team’s top scorer, who is crucial for their offensive output.
Defensively, the backline comprising Pablo Maffeo, David López, Johan Mojica, and Martin Valjent has struggled, as evidenced by the lack of clean sheets in recent matches. Their defensive setup has been susceptible to quick transitions, particularly against teams that exploit wide spaces.
Offensively, Mallorca rely on maintaining possession, as seen in their 65% possession against Real Betis. However, this approach has often left them exposed to counterattacks, a vulnerability they must address to improve their away form and secure vital points in their LaLiga campaign.
Celta Vigo vs Mallorca Head-to-Head Record
In the head-to-head record between Celta Vigo and Mallorca, it’s quite close, with Mallorca having a slight edge, winning 11 of their 28 encounters compared to Celta Vigo’s 10 wins, with 7 matches ending in a draw. Their last meeting was a 1-1 draw at Mallorca’s home ground in August 2025, demonstrating how evenly matched these teams are.
The last time Celta Vigo hosted Mallorca at the Abanca Balaídos was in December 2024, where Celta secured a solid 2-0 victory. This suggests that Celta might have a home advantage in this upcoming fixture, especially considering their balanced goal-scoring record against Mallorca.
| Home Team | Away Team | Score | Competition | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mallorca | Celta Vigo | 1 – 1 | LaLiga | 2025-08-23 |
| Mallorca | Celta Vigo | 1 – 2 | LaLiga | 2025-04-05 |
| Celta Vigo | Mallorca | 2 – 0 | LaLiga | 2024-12-06 |
| Mallorca | Celta Vigo | 1 – 1 | LaLiga | 2024-01-13 |
| Celta Vigo | Mallorca | 0 – 1 | LaLiga | 2023-09-16 |
