Matchday 1 Preview, Europa League League Phase

It's a big week on Any Given Thursday because the Europa League proper is officially here!

That's right, the first round of league phase games begin Wednesday, and it is one of the best slates we've ever had covering the tournament.

We hit all the best matchups, including Betis v Forest, Nice v Roma, + Midtjylland v Sturm Graz on Wednesday, and Stuttgart v Celta Vigo + Aston Villa v Bologna Thursday — and predict the results.

We also talk our favorite hipster showcases and discuss which big-league clubs are already trending in the wrong direction.

Cheers Robin van Persie!