Celtic face LASK Linz in Champions League play-off bid
Celtic host LASK Linz in the first leg of their Champions League play-off on Wednesday night, desperate to banish memories of last season's shock elimination by Kairat Almaty and secure a return to Europe's elite competition under Brendan O'Neill.
The Scottish champions have been installed as heavy favourites to overcome the Austrian side, with bookmakers pricing Celtic at around 2/7 to win the first leg at Celtic Park. But O'Neill and his squad know better than to take anything for granted after the painful exit to Kairat twelve months ago.
Key Takeaways
- Celtic play the first leg of their Champions League play-off against LASK Linz at Celtic Park on Wednesday evening.
- Manager Brendan O'Neill is determined to avoid a repeat of last season's embarrassing defeat to Kairat Almaty.
- Celtic are strong favourites, but LASK Linz will fancy their chances as dangerous underdogs.
- A win over two legs would see Celtic return to the Champions League group stage.
Why does the Kairat defeat still haunt Celtic?
Last season's elimination at the hands of Kazakh side Kairat Almaty was one of the most humiliating results in Celtic's European history. The defeat denied them a place among Europe's top clubs and left the Parkhead faithful stunned.
O'Neill has spoken openly about using that pain as motivation. The manager wants his players to channel the disappointment into a performance that leaves no room for another upset. The atmosphere at Celtic Park is expected to be electric as supporters rally behind the team.
What can Celtic expect from LASK Linz?
LASK Linz, based in the Austrian city of Linz, are no strangers to European competition. They have developed a reputation as an organised, hard-working side capable of causing problems for bigger clubs on the continent.
However, Celtic's home record and squad depth make them clear favourites. The Racing Post has included a Celtic victory in their recommended accumulator for the evening, reflecting widespread confidence in the Scottish side. O'Neill is expected to field his strongest available lineup for such a high-stakes fixture.
How important is Champions League qualification for Celtic?
Reaching the Champions League group stage would be transformative for Celtic, both financially and in terms of prestige. The revenue boost from guaranteed group-stage matches would dwarf anything available in alternative European competitions.
It would also validate O'Neill's project at the club and give Celtic a platform to test themselves against the best sides on the continent. For more on unexpected twists in the world of football, visit our Bizarre World hub.
All eyes will be on Celtic Park on Wednesday night. After the Kairat nightmare, nothing less than a commanding first-leg victory will satisfy the home crowd.