Opta’s latest supercomputer predictions have handed Celtic the edge over Rangers when it comes to reaching the Europa League knockouts this season.
The model gives Celtic a 70.7 per cent chance of advancing beyond the league phase, while the Rangers sit some way behind on 56.4 per cent. It’s a notable vote of confidence in the Hoops, especially with all the noise surrounding the squad and the boardroom in recent weeks.
Breaking it down further, Opta predict that Celtic have a 17.8 per cent chance of finishing inside the top eight, which would take them straight into the round of 16. There’s also a 52 per cent chance they end up in the play-off positions, and a 29.3 per cent chance they fail to make it through.
𝐔𝐄𝐅𝐀 𝐄𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐚 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐞: 2025-26 Predictions 📈
Who will win the 2025-26 UEFA Europa League?
We’ve got the results of the 10,000 pre-season Opta supercomputer simulations.
Click below to find out more. ⬇️
— Opta Analyst (@OptaAnalyst) September 11, 2025
It’s worth remembering that the same statistical model last year tipped Celtic as having the easiest run in the Champions League last season. The numbers give a picture, but results will always be decided on the pitch.
Still, the figures underline how Celtic are being viewed across Europe: a side with the quality to progress if they can find consistency. For Rodgers, that will mean balancing domestic duties with the need to finally make an impression on the continent.
Rangers, meanwhile, face a tougher statistical outlook, with Opta giving them a much lower chance of progression. The gap between the rivals in the projections will not go unnoticed, especially with both clubs under pressure to deliver in Europe.
For Celtic, the task is clear. The data suggests they are in a strong position, but supporters will be quick to remind Rodgers that the only measure that counts is what happens under the floodlights. After years of frustration in Europe, the time has come to turn percentages into performances.
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