In the sixth round of the UEFA Europa Conference League group stage on December 18, 2025 (local time), Celje will host Shelbourne. A win against the group outsider would significantly boost the hosts’ chances of finishing inside the top six.
Our Prediction for Celje vs Shelbourne
Celje finished last season in fourth place domestically after dropping from first, but they compensated by lifting the national cup. This campaign, however, has been far more convincing, with the Slovenian side emerging as the clear leaders of their domestic league. Their opponents, Shelbourne, enjoyed a long-awaited league title last year, but in 2025 they were only able to secure third place.
Celje once again began their European journey in the Europa League during the summer. After overcoming Sabah, they were eliminated by AEK Larnaca. In the current competition, they defeated Lugano and Baník Ostrava in qualification. During the autumn phase, they recorded impressive wins over AEK Athens, Shamrock Rovers, and Legia Warsaw, but suffered an away defeat to Sigma Olomouc. Their most recent setback came against Rijeka, where they lost 0–3.
Shelbourne started their European campaign in the Champions League, successfully getting past local rivals Linfield before being convincingly beaten by Qarabag. Dropping into the Europa League, they won 2–1 away from home but then lost 1–3 to Rijeka in the return leg. In this tournament, they again defeated Linfield twice, but once the main round began, their playoff hopes quickly faded. After a goalless draw with Häcken, they lost to Shkëndija-79, Drita, and AZ Alkmaar. In the last round, they were heavily beaten 0–3 by Crystal Palace.
Celje vs Shelbourne: Key Stats and Trends
Celje have won six of their last nine league matches.
The hosts score an average of two goals per game and concede 1.22.
Shelbourne are on a four-match losing streak.
The Irish side averages just 0.71 goals scored per match while conceding 1.14.
Celje vs Shelbourne: Probable Starting Lineups
Celje (probable lineup):
Leban – Karnicnik, Tutyskin, Beyger, Nieto – Sturm, Hrka, Kvesic, Lisakovich, Iosifov – Kovacevic
Shelbourne (probable lineup):
Spell – Kelly, Ledwidge, Barrett, Coyle, Mbeng – McEnroe, Lanni, Henry-Francis – Odubeko, Wood
Previous Matches: Celje vs Shelbourne
These two clubs will be facing each other for the first time in European competition.
Free Prediction for Celje vs Shelbourne
The visitors appear short on form and competitive match rhythm. Considering Celje’s attacking efficiency and overall stability, the recommended bet is a Celje win with a -1.5 goals handicap, available at odds of 1.83.
