Celtic welcome Azerbaijani side Qarabag to Parkhead on Wednesday night to contest the first leg of the third round Champions League qualifiers and the match has the potential to be a banana skin for the Scottish giants.
Celtic Match Betting News
Having been embarrassed twice in the Champions League qualifiers last season, Celtic are determined not to suffer the same fate once again and it seems evident through their performances so far.
Celtic put in a fantastic display over the course of two legs against Icelandic side Stjarnan in the previous round to win the tie 6-1 and Ronny Deila’s men will now be focused on getting through another hurdle when they square off against Azerbaijani side Qarabag.
Celtic need no reminding that they cannot afford to be complacent against supposedly smaller teams and Qarabag do have the potential to cause an upset if the Scottish giants do not play to their best.
Charlie Mulgrew is a doubt for the game after picking up a knock during the pre-season friendly against Rennes.
Qarabag Match Betting News
Qarabag have emerged as the powerhouses of Azerbaijani football in recent years and they have been able to make a small mark in European competitions as well.
Having seen off Montenegro side Rudar in the previous round, Qarabag competing in the third round of qualifiers is an achievement in itself.
However, Qarabag will have ambitions of going all the way to the finals of the Champions League this season and they will surely look to give Celtic a tough time on Wednesday night.
Braziliain duo Reynaldo and Richard Almeida are the star men for Qarabag for the clash and the duo will undoubtedly have to play well in order for the away side to stand a chance.
Celtic vs Qarabag Match Prediction
Given their squad strength and history in Europe, Celtic head into the game as favourites and the Hoops should be able to claim the victory if they play to their best. Celtic most certainly cannot afford to underestimate Qarabag though and the match will be a challenge for Deila’s men.
Match Betting Tip: HT/FT Celtic-Celtic @2.20 at Bet365
