Celta Vigo Vs. PAOK Draws US Soccer Fans Ahead Of Europa League Clash
Celta Vigo Vs. PAOK Draws US Soccer Fans Ahead Of Europa League Clash...
The Europa League matchup between Spain's Celta Vigo and Greece's PAOK is trending among US soccer fans ahead of Thursday's knockout round clash. The game, set for February 27 at Celta's BalaÃdos Stadium, has gained attention due to rising American interest in European competitions and the presence of US national team prospect Luca de la Torre in Celta's squad.
De la Torre, a 25-year-old California native, has become a regular starter for Celta this season. His growing prominence has drawn American eyes to the Galician club's European campaign. The midfielder's potential involvement against PAOK adds stakes for US viewers tuning in via Paramount+ and CBS Sports.
PAOK brings its own intrigue as one of Greece's most successful clubs, currently sitting second in the Super League. Their aggressive style under manager Razvan Lucescu contrasts with Celta's possession-based approach, setting up a compelling tactical battle. The winner advances to the Europa League round of 16.
US interest also stems from the broader growth of European soccer viewership stateside. Europa League matches averaged 412,000 American viewers in 2025, up 18% from 2024 according to Nielsen data. Thursday's 12:45 PM ET kickoff provides rare daytime soccer programming for US audiences.
Social media engagement around the matchup spiked after Celta's 2-1 weekend win over Villarreal, where de la Torre logged 78 minutes. Fans on Reddit and Twitter are debating whether the American can help his club overcome PAOK's physical defense. The Greek side hasn't lost in European competition since September.
Scouts from several MLS clubs are expected to watch the match, with PAOK's Brazilian winger Taison and Celta's Swedish striker Jorgen Strand Larsen also drawing stateside interest. The game could influence summer transfer plans for multiple American teams.
Weather may play a factor, with forecasts calling for rain in Vigo during match time. The slick conditions could benefit PAOK's counterattacking style. Celta has won just once in their last five home European fixtures.
American soccer podcasts and blogs have highlighted the matchup throughout the week, with many focusing on de la Torre's development since leaving Dutch club Heracles Almelo in 2022. His 87% pass accuracy in La Liga this season ranks among the competition's top midfielders.
The winner will face either Freiburg or Lens in the next round, with the draw scheduled for Friday. For US viewers, the game represents another data point in evaluating domestic talent abroad ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which America will co-host.
