The high-flying Celtic have won all their games this season in competitions. But they will arguably have their toughest test so far on Tuesday night against Borussia Dortmund at the iconic Westfalenstadion. The Hoops registered an emphatic 5-1 win against Slovan Bratislava on matchday 1, also, the thumping weekend victory over St Johnstone must boost their spirit before locking horns with last season’s runners-up.
Despite a shocking 5-1 defeat against VfB Stuttgart, Dortmund returned with sheer supremacy over Bochum. They also won their opening Champions League tie, that too on the road against Club Brugge and the contest in their own backyard makes them firm favourites to clinch all three points from this midweek fixture.
Predicted 4-3-3 Celtic Lineup To Face Borussia Dortmund
Defence
Barring injuries, Kasper Schmeichel remains the ‘number 1’ choice between the sticks. Given his experience of the highest order, the veteran Dane must play a crucial role in this high-profile encounter.
Brendan Rodgers hopes to have Cameron Carter-Vickers back even though the USMNT centre-half missed the last two games with a toe injury. He would partner with Liam Scales in the heart of the backline, however, his fellow countryman Auston Trusty could retain the starting status in case Carter-Vickers fails the late fitness test. Greg Taylor remains irreplaceable down the left, and so is right fullback Alistair Johnston who must get the nod over Alex Valle and Anthony Ralston.
Midfield
Callum McGregor has been in sublime form as a deep-lying playmaker. But he might have to focus more on marshalling the ‘back four’ rather than making down-the-middle runs and operating in the advanced areas. Paulo Bernardo has found the net on back-to-back games which could see him securing a first-team spot ahead of Reo Hatate. Arne Engels has cemented his place as an outright ‘number 8’ since completing a high-profile transfer as Matt O’Riley successor. The former Augsburg midfielder has past experiences against the German giants during his Bundesliga days, and it remains to be seen whether he will grab a result this time after not-so-memorable outcomes in previous meetings.
Attack
Celtic have ample options high up the pitch with Kyogo Furuhashi expected to spearhead the attack even though Adam Idah has netted goals in recent outings. Daizen Maeda must depict his flair, finesse and work ethic while featuring from the left, also, the pace, prowess and precision of Nicolas Kuhn could cause menace in the Dortmund defence. James Forrest could be involved in the second half for his experience and expertise down the flanks.
