Europa League

Match day 5 is when the groups start to get more tense as some teams are going into games either needing must ones, or those crucial points to secure a spot in the next stage. Match day 5 is spread over two days, Wednesday 30th of November, and 1st of December and below is the pick of the matches in my opinion.

Celtic v Atletico Madrid

Celtic were fortunate to qualify, and then unfortunate to get a tough group containing Rennes and Udinese. Celtic have held their own so far and stick in with a real chance of qualifying. Atletico Madrid will qualify  if they were to get the 3 points at Park Head, but it will not be easy, as Celtic are a very formidable side at home. It’s all to play for in this fixture and the atmosphere will be electric. In the reverse fixture, Atletico Madrid were on top form, as they easily saw off the threat from Celtic, with a comfortable 2-0 victory.

FC Twente v Fulham

The top two teams from K both looking for wins as they try and get 1st place in their group, and therefore an easier match in the next round. Twente have already progressed, and it seems very likely that Fulham will to, but if Twente avoid defeat tonight, then they will finish in top spot. Both sides are supposedly dark horses for the tournament, and of course Fulham reached the final two years ago. The last time these two sides met it was 1-1 at Cravern Cottage in a lively game, where Andy Johson gave the hosts a lead, and a rather unfortunate goal was conceded for Fulham’s point of view to share the spoils.

Stoke v Dynamo Kiev

Stoke have started brilliantly so far in the Europa League. When these sides first met back in September, a late Dynamo Kiev goal saw them steal a point from Stoke, although Stoke would of taken a point before the match. Since then, Stoke have won three on the bounce and looking aside the rest of Europe will want to avoid. Dynamo Kiev are currently sitting 3rd in the group, and will need a result if they wish to continue further in the Europa League. It will be a tough ask for them, with Besiktas looking stronger favourites to qualify, but one thing for sure is that it will be an entertaining game for all the spectators.