The 2025/26 UEFA Europa League has, once again, brought together some traditional heavyweights from across Europe and ambitious underdogs whose dreams lie in exceeding expectations. Over 50 clubs have varying participation in the qualifying round fixtures scheduled between July and August 2025; indeed, another classic summer installment of European drama is firmly on!
Though fans and the media continue to give most of their attention to betting favorites, these qualifiers have also brought into play several relatively obscure clubs that hold realistic upset chances. Bookmakers and betting analysts have kept England’s Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur as leading prospects. Statistical models agree with this view. At the semi-final stage, according to the Opta Supercomputer, Manchester United has a 52.4% chance of winning the tournament — while Tottenham is not far behind. However, it has been seen before; surprises do happen here.
Other top favorites include Spanish side Athletic Club (Bilbao), Italian giants AS Roma and Lazio, Portuguese stalwarts FC Porto, and French contenders Lyon. These teams have the benefit of experience, higher UEFA Coefficients, and seasoned squads used to the pressure that comes with playing continental football. Athletic Bilbao, in particular, received a favorable draw in the quarterfinals hence increasing their chances of going deep into the tournament. FC Porto has also earned respect due to their consistency in UEFA tournaments though not outright favorites.
Below are the current best betting odds (as of July 2025) for the Europa League title among selected teams.
| Team | Odds |
| Tottenham Hotspur | 5.50 |
| Manchester United | 6.00 |
| AS Roma | 9.00 |
| Real Sociedad | 12.00 |
| Athletic Bilbao | 13.00 |
| FC Porto | 13.00 |
| Lazio | 15.00 |
| Lyon | 21.00 |
| Bodø/Glimt | 40.00 |
Though there’s a clear order amongst the favorites, it’s not to say that the rest have no hope. History has shown that this is a stage where unlikely heroes tend to emerge from.
Top Underdogs to Watch
Though the glitz clubs may take up most of the headlines, a batch of underdogs has started turning heads. These clubs do not have the budgets or continental pedigree of their richer counterparts but what they bring is energy, resilience, and executive ability to spring a surprise.
- Bodø/Glimt (Norway) The team from this northern part of Norway is always playing with great spirit, believing in their style. Not afraid to take on some of the more giant names they have already disposed of. They still pose an enormous threat for upsets.
- Midtjylland (Denmark) The Danes keep turning heads with their performances driven by data and strategic play. A strong showing against clubs ranked well above them on the hierarchy, including giving Real Sociedad a game and are now seen as a valued underdog.
- Sheriff Tiraspol is best remembered for their shock 2021 Champions League win over Real Madrid. However, the Sheriff carries a giant-killing legacy. In early rounds, they have demonstrated both composure and tactical strength.
- Levski Sofia has not been very successful lately, but remains dangerous in knockout situations. Resilience plus home-ground advantage can make even the most experienced club have a tough time.
- Prishtina is a rare sight in UEFA competitions and, arguably one of the longest long shots. They could create some magic in the early rounds with determination and strong local support.
Other noteworthy underdogs are FC Aktobe from Kazakhstan, AEK Larnaca of Cyprus, Ilves coming out of Finland, and Partizan Belgrade located in Serbia. None of them are unlikely to lift this tournament but may decide who gets through to those group stages due to their unpredictability.
The Qualifying Structure: A Gateway for Chaos
The 2025/26 Europa League was unleashed on July 10. It will run until August 28. Basically, it’s an extended multi-round system featuring 53 teams where domestic league performance and UEFA club coefficients intercede to determine seeding. Stronger clubs from major leagues join in later rounds; the smaller teams must navigate through more challenging paths starting from round one.
This throws semi-pro or local teams against old hands at the continental game, making great conditions for surprises. Already, Sheriff Tiraspol, Legia Warsaw, and Spartak Trnava have notched some eye-catching wins in the early rounds.
Final Thoughts
Tottenham and Manchester United may sit atop most pre-tournament forecasts, but this is still one of the most open and thrilling contests across Europe thanks to its mix of big names and brave new boys who keep the fans on their toes round after round.
If history is anything to go by, at least one underdog will spoil the favorites’ party and advance deep into the tournament. Be it Bodø/Glimt shocking another favorite or Prishtina pulling off an improbable victory, that’s where the beauty of Europa League comes from — its pure unpredictability.
With just weeks left before the final qualifiers are done and dusted, best believe football fans and punters alike will be keeping a keen eye — because here, anything truly is possible.
