'I was in the stands!' – Iago Aspas recalls Celta's historic win over Juventus

Ahead of Thursday's Europa League match against Juventus, Celta Vigo veteran Iago Aspas has shared special memories of the two clubs' last encounter. Back in the 1999/2000 UEFA Cup, Celta famously overturned a first-leg deficit to thrash the Italian giants 4-0 at Balaidos.

I was in the stands that day in Balaidos, and being on the field now makes it even more special. Iago Aspas

Aspas noted that while the history is significant, the team remains focused on the present. "This is a great match, very special, but it is still just one of eight in the league phase," he said. "We have to start winning three points at a time and give the fans something to cheer about." Celta faces a tough task, entering the game on a three-match losing streak in Europe, although they maintain an unbeaten home record in nine opening Europa League matches.

Juventus arrives in Spain in strong form following a 5-0 victory over NEC Nijmegen in their opener. The Bianconeri are aiming for back-to-back wins to secure their path toward automatic knockout qualification. The visitors will rely on their midfield control and the clinical form of Randal Kolo Muani to break down the hosts, while Celta's Marcos Alonso continues his personal quest to beat Juventus for the first time.

Celta will need to replicate the tactical efficiency that saw them record the competition's highest pass completion rate on Matchday 1. With the return to Balaidos, the stage is set for a clash that balances historical nostalgia with the urgent need for points in the new league phase structure.