Celta Vigo has confirmed its starting lineup for the LaLiga 2026-27 Matchday 3 fixture against Athletic Club. The match takes place this Sunday, August 30, at the Estadio Abanca-Balaídos in Vigo. The sky-blue team faces the clash in a delicate position, sitting 18th in the table with just one point from three games and a recent form of LLD.
How is Celta Vigo approaching the match?
The team under its new technical staff is looking to react after a tough start to the season. Celta Vigo earned a point on the opening day with a goalless draw against Valencia. The second matchday brought a painful 2-1 home defeat to CA Osasuna at Balaídos. Iago Aspas scored the Celta goal in the 14th minute, but strikes from Kike Barja and Ante Budimir, coupled with Marcos Alonso's second-half dismissal, turned the game around. With only one goal scored and four conceded, the -3 goal difference reflects early defensive issues.
Which players make up the starting eleven?
Goalkeeper Radu will be the last line of defense. The back three will consist of Rguez, Starfelt, and Faye. In midfield, Alvaro N.C., Febas, Moriba, and Carreira will be tasked with creating play. The attacking trio is formed by H. Gonzalez, Jutgla, and Williot. The Celta bench is listed without confirmed players in the provided information. This lineup shows the technical staff's bet on refreshing the team at a key moment, with the confirmed absence of Borja Iglesias affecting offensive options.
What about the opponent, Athletic Club?
Athletic Club arrives in Vigo equally in need of points. The Bilbao side, managed by Edin Terzić, has lost both of its opening matches. It fell 3-1 to Sevilla, with a lone goal from Aitor Paredes, and then lost 2-0 to FC Barcelona. Their starting eleven for this match features U. Simon in goal. The defense is formed by Areso, Paredes, Laporte, and Yuri. Galarreta and Gere will operate in the center, while the attack relies on Navarro, O. Sancet, Berenguer, and I. Williams. The visitors' bench includes options like N. Williams, Guruzeta, Canales, and Johaneko, among others.
What does this match mean for the season?
This clash represents a critical opportunity for both teams to correct their course. For Celta Vigo, winning at home is vital to escape the relegation spots and build confidence. The team is eight points behind the leader, Real Madrid, a considerable gap that demands an immediate reaction. The next fixture on the schedule is against Real Sociedad on September 3rd away. Checking the updated standings will be key to understanding the pressure context the club is operating under. Navigating this initial period will be essential for aiming at a calm season, and a victory over Athletic could be the necessary turning point.
