Europa League matchday 3 takes center stage on Thursday night with 18 fixtures across the continent. Juventus host Rennes in Turin, Bournemouth face AC Milan in a glamour tie, while Beşiktaş take on Crystal Palace and Celtic meet Celta Vigo in two more eye-catching clashes.
The action begins with eight early kick-offs at 5:45pm UK time, including Juventus vs Rennes (TNT Sports 5), Lech Poznań vs Sunderland (TNT Sports 1) and OFI Crete vs Bayer Leverkusen (TNT Sports 6). The late games at 8pm feature Bournemouth vs AC Milan (TNT Sports 1), Beşiktaş vs Crystal Palace (TNT Sports 2) and Celtic vs Celta Vigo (TNT Sports 3).
Key ties to watch
Juventus, who thrashed NEC Nijmegen 5-0 on matchday 1, will expect to maintain their perfect start against Rennes. Bournemouth vs AC Milan pits two in-form sides against each other, while Crystal Palace travel to Istanbul knowing Beşiktaş beat Marseille 4-1 earlier in the competition.
According to UEFA’s official fixture list, the league phase runs until January 28, with the top eight advancing directly to the knockout rounds.
British interest
The Europa League has evolved into one of football’s most compelling competitions, and Thursday’s bumper schedule showcases its remarkable depth. With 18 fixtures across the continent, the league-phase format ensures meaningful football from the first whistle, and the glamour ties carry genuine intrigue.
Juventus will expect to handle Rennes in Turin, but the French side are dangerous opponents capable of an upset. Keep an eye on Beşiktaş against Crystal Palace too; the Turkish atmosphere is famously hostile, and Palace’s European adventure faces a stern test. Celtic hosting Celta Vigo is another fascinating clash. By Thursday night, the qualification picture will be significantly clearer.
The 5:45pm UK time kick-offs will set the tone, with eight matches running simultaneously. For supporters, it’s a feast of football; for the clubs, it’s another step toward the knockout rounds. The Europa League’s new format has been a triumph, delivering drama and jeopardy deep into the league phase.
With Sunderland, Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and Celtic all in action, there is plenty for British fans to follow. After a dramatic Champions League week, Thursday promises more European drama under the lights.
