Celtic’s 1-1 draw against Shakhtar Donetsk in midweek meant that they are guaranteed to finish bottom of their group in the Champions League. It also means that they will be out of Europe when the group stages come to an end. Yet, the Hoops have quite a bit to play for when they come up against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Firstly, Celtic are yet to win a game in the Champions League this season and have just one chance left to rectify that. Secondly, it is not often that you get the chance to play Real Madrid in their own backyard.
Anything other than a defeat would be a memorable result. And with no pressure of qualification left, perhaps the players will be able to raise their games against Real Madrid.
Real Madrid have suffered a major worry ahead of the game though. Karim Benzema has been suffering with muscular fatigue recently but was expected to return this weekend, against Girona. That has not happened though. And as reported by SPORT, his presence is in doubt for the upcoming Champions League game, vs Celtic.
Real Madrid suffer Benzema blow before facing Celtic at Santiago Bernabeu
Benzema might have won the Ballon d’Or recently but he has had his struggles to remain fit this season.
In the opening game of the Champions League group stage campaign vs Celtic, he was forced off the pitch after around half an hour due to an injury.
That kept him out for a while, but he did make his return and was looking in good form, before suffering this fresh blow. It remains to be seen if Benzema is back in time to face Celtic or not. Real Madrid do have something to play for in the game though, as the top spot in the group is still up for grabs.