3 Upshots from Celtic vs. Zenit

3) Can Celtic finish the job?

The 3-5-1-1 formation really worked in the opening leg. Surely, however, Brendan Rodgers will have to put more men at defense in the next game.

Jozo Simunovic and Kristoffer Ajer did a splendid job at the back. Rodgers elected not to use Jack Hendry here, and it was a good thing that he didn’t.

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The formation pushed the play forward with Tierney on the wing. In the next leg, it will be really interesting to see how Rodgers elects to use his fullbacks. All out attack like this may not be seen in the next leg, but a goal wouldn’t hurt either.

By that time, supporters might see some injured folks back in action such as Marvin Compper, which will allow Celtic more freedom at the back.

The defense will really have to be the big talking point in the next leg, especially in Russia. Celtic played defense with attack in this one, but they might not be able to get away with it in the next contest.

Rodgers has some time to figure it out though. A hosting of an eighth placed St. Johnstone could allow fans a sneak-peak as to what might be used at Zenit.

Whatever the tactics are, you can never count out Celtic in the end. Big win here, and we can only hope for more of the same ahead.

Next: Celtic vs. Zenit: Lineups revealed, home advantage?

What were your takeaways from this contest? Impressed with what you saw? Are there still issues to worry about heading into the next leg? Let us know in the comments section below.

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