Celtic managed to scrape past Motherwell at Parkhead to get a 2-1 win. On another day, this could have been a one-sided game in favour of the Hoops but ultimately, it was a nervy contest, and Ange Postecoglou’s side should be happy that they managed to get out of the contest with all three points.
This midweek, things are expected to be much tougher, when they travel to Germany in order to take on RB Leipzig. The German side have not made a good start to the campaign but they have certainly improved since the appointment of Marco Rose as manager.
And their recent performance against VfL Bochum was a statement of intent. Timo Werner and Christopher Nkunku both scored braces, as RB Leipzig got a 4-0 win, thus, preparing for their upcoming Champions League clash with Celtic in style.
Thus, it is safe to say that Celtic will have to raise their game by a few times when they meet the German side in Europe’s elite competition. The performance that they put in against Motherwell will simply not cut it.
RB Leipzig send clear message to Celtic before Champions League game in Germany
Of course, it is easier said than done, telling Celtic to raise their games. At the end of the day, they have a lot of key players missing at the moment.
The biggest worry is their defence, with both first choice centre-backs, Cameron Carter-Vickers and Carl Starfelt, out of action.
There is a small chance that Carter-Vickers could recover in time to face RB Leipzig. On the other hand, Starfelt is certain to miss the contest.
Giorgos Giakoumakis could be fit for the game though, which would come as a huge boost for the Hoops, who have been struggling in front of goal in a number of their recent games.