Celta Vigo significantly advanced their prospects in the Europa League by securing a victory against PAOK in the Toumba Stadium, a venue that had not witnessed a visiting team win for over a year. The team, coached by Giráldez, showcased superiority throughout the match, with key contributions from players Aspas and Swedberg, both scoring in the first half. However, the match ended with a hint of tension following a late goal from Jeremejeff for PAOK, which could influence the return leg.

The match was characterized by Celta's structured play and high precision, allowing them to control the game effectively. Despite a potential setback from another goal that was disallowed due to a narrowly judged offside, they managed to finish the first leg with a respectable 1-2 advantage. This performance not only highlights Celta's capability but also sets the stage for the decisive encounter in the second leg at their home ground, Balaídos.

Looking ahead, the upcoming clash at Balaídos will be crucial for Celta as they aim to secure their place in the Round of 16. The level of play demonstrated against PAOK could bolster the team's confidence, especially given the historical difficulty of winning at the Toumba Stadium. A successful campaign in the Europa League could have far-reaching implications for Celta Vigo, enhancing their reputation and financial standing in European football.