Celtic’s chances of qualifying through to the knockout stages of the Champions League hangs in the balance as they host the mighty Bayern at the Celtic Park this midweek.
The Celts were thrashed 3:0 at the Allianz two weeks ago and are currently ranked third in their group standings. A win against Bayern in this reverse fixture could actually usher in a sign of hope for the Scottish champions.
Bayern, on the other hand, are in absolutely splendid form at the moment. Since the appointment of Jupp Heynckes. the Bavarians acquire a hundred percent record in the Bundesliga as well as the Champions League. They will be looking to end the magical October form on a good note.
The Hoops stuttered in their weekend game against Kilmarnock. After taking the lead at the 43rd minute, the Scottish league leaders let their lead slip through as Kilmarnock equalized at the hour mark. However, the draw against Kilmarnock led Celtic to a historical record. The Hoops are now unbeaten in 62 domestic games, equalling William Maley’s side’s achievement in 1915-1917. Fans will hope that this could provide a much-needed boost for the players as they face off against one of the deadliest in Europe this midweek.
As for Bayern, they were quite convincing in their 2:0 win over RB Leipzig. Their opposition were decimated quite early on in the game, as Willi Orban was penalized with a red card for a tackle on Arjen Robben within the first twelve minutes. Bayern now regains their top spot in the Bundesliga table, largely thanks to a barren form of Borussia Dortmund.
Team News
Celtic will be without a number of key defenders in this game. Center backs Jozo Simunovic and Erik Sviatchenko. They will also miss right back Anthony Ralston through a knee injury.
On the flip side, Bayern Munich suffers an even depressing injury crisis at the moment. Most of their attackers will remain injured in the week, with Robert Lewandowski being the latest victim of that list. The Polish striker didn’t travel with the team due to a precaution after taking a knock against Leipzig.
Manuel Neuer, Thomas Muller, and Franck Ribery will remain as long-term absentees for the Bavarians. However, Juan Bernat is closing into his full fitness but will probably be ruled for the clash.
Predicted Lineups
Celtic (4-2-3-1 formation): Craig Gordon; Mikael Lustig, Dedryck Boyata, Nir Bitton, Kieran Tierney; Stuart Armstrong, Scott Brown; Callum McGregor, Tom Rogic, Scott Sinclair; Moussa Dembele.
Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1 formation): Sven Ulreich; Joshua Kimmich, Jerome Boateng, Mats Hummels, David Alaba; Sebastian Rudy, Thiago Alcantara; James Rodriguez, Corentin Tolisso, Kingsley Coman; Arjen Robben
Betting Odds
Celtic: 17/2
Draw: 17/4
Bayern Munich: 4/11
Predictions:
Celtic 1-3 Bayern Munich
