No Superstars, but a Burning Desire to Win: The 5 Favorites of the Europa Conference League
The Europa Conference League (ECL) may be a third-tier tournament, but it has its own charm: no giants, no massive budgets, and no overwhelming favorites. Here, some clubs make a name for themselves, others restore their reputation, and some transform from outsiders into contenders during the tournament.
The 2025/26 season has brought several unexpected favorites. They come from different countries, each with its own philosophy and strategy. But all share one goal: to lift the trophy in May. Those who want to check the odds or place bets can download the “Liga Stavok” app — Legalbet offers a detailed installation guide. We, meanwhile, will highlight the top five favorites of this season.
Crystal Palace (odds 6.0): the underdog turned European favorite
Not long ago, the club was fighting for survival in the Premier League, and now it aims to win a European trophy. The FA Cup victory was a turning point: Palace believed in itself and has been showing stable football for more than a season.
Their game relies on a rock–solid defense and quick transitions into attack. The wings are their main weapon — every run can turn into a scoring moment. There are no superstars, but the team has cohesion and strict discipline.
Strengths: balance between tight defense and quick counterattacks.
Weaknesses: short bench and lack of European experience.
If the Eagles stay true to their style, they will be a dangerous opponent for anyone.
Fiorentina (odds 6.5): the third attempt to claim the trophy
Two finals in a row — two defeats. For Fiorentina, the Conference League has become personal. This season, the team looks more mature: a balanced squad, a flexible coach, and confidence in all phases of play.
They control the tempo, play positionally, and punish mistakes. New players added variety in attack, while the midfield remains one of the smartest in the tournament.
Strengths: experience and Italian tactical education.
Weaknesses: emotional pressure and inconsistency during the season.
Fiorentina seeks not only the trophy, but also closure.
Strasbourg (odds 8.0): the bold French project
Strasbourg doesn’t make loud statements — it simply plays its football. The philosophy is clear: high pressing, insane intensity, and attacking from the first to the last minute.
The French rarely sit back — they impose their tempo and never let rivals rest. Young players, speed, and a risk–taking coach make Strasbourg one of the most exciting teams in the tournament.
Strengths: energy, system, and ability to dictate tempo.
Weaknesses: limited resources and lack of experience in decisive matches.
If they maintain form until spring, reaching the semifinals is realistic.
Mainz (odds 9.9): German order and cold calculation
Mainz plays football without excess. Maximum concentration, minimal mistakes. The team builds its game on discipline and structure rather than emotions.
Their strategy: controlling space, solid defense, and pressure through set pieces. The Germans punish anyone who loses focus.
Strengths: discipline, fitness, defensive stability.
Weaknesses: limited creativity and difficulties breaking deep defenses.
With a favorable bracket, Mainz can go very far. This is the case where accuracy becomes a weapon.
Rayo Vallecano (odds 12.0): beautiful but unstable football
Rayo is not about pomp — it’s about passion. The small suburban Madrid club plays with emotion and fears no one. Their style: short passing, high pressing, nonstop movement. This is not academic football — it’s a fight for every meter.
Strengths: technique, speed, constant pressure.
Weaknesses: instability and poor away results.
If Rayo finds its rhythm, it can turn the tournament upside down. There’s always risk in their game, and that’s exactly why fans around the world love them.
Final Thoughts
There are no giants or glamorous headlines, but plenty of teams playing with heart and identity. Most likely, the champion will not be the richest team but the one that survives the grind and enters the playoffs in proper form.
Many football experts rightly consider the ECL the most unpredictable European competition, where the circle of real contenders is much wider than in the Champions League or Europa League. Yes, bookmakers list their favorites, but almost anyone can make the final.
