In a significant development for the UEFA Conference League, AEK Athens will face Celje in the second leg of their matchup on March 19, 2026. AEK Athens secured a commanding 4-0 victory in the first leg, putting them in a strong position to advance to the quarter-finals.
AEK Athens has demonstrated remarkable form, remaining unbeaten in their last 10 matches across all competitions, with 6 victories and 4 draws. This streak has been overseen by manager Marko Nicolic, who has effectively balanced the team’s European ambitions with their domestic title race.
Currently, AEK Athens is in a three-way tie for the top spot in their domestic league, showcasing their competitive edge both in Greece and Europe. The team is poised to meet either Samsunspor or Rayo Vallecano in the quarter-finals, should they maintain their lead against Celje.
On the other hand, Celje has faced challenges in their recent performances, finishing 13th in the League Phase of the Conference League route. However, they are currently 7 points clear at the top of the Prva Liga table, indicating their strength in domestic play.
Celje’s recent form includes a narrow 1-0 win against Koper, which ended a three-match losing streak. Despite this, they will need to overcome a significant deficit to AEK Athens in the upcoming match.
It’s worth noting that six players from AEK Athens are at risk of missing the next fixture if booked during the match against Celje. This could impact their strategy as they aim to secure a place in the next round.
As the match approaches, both teams are preparing for a crucial encounter that could define their seasons. AEK Athens looks to solidify their dominance, while Celje seeks to mount a comeback against the odds.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute changes to the lineups or strategies from either side. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating the outcome of this pivotal clash.
