Celtic will kick off their Champions League group stage campaign a little over a week later with an away trip to take on Feyenoord. Of course, the Hoops are the only Scottish club in Europe’s elite competition this season after the Rangers failed to make it, having been knocked out from the qualifiers by another Dutch club in PSV.
It will be interesting to see how Celtic do this time around. They put in some very positive displays last season but were let down by their finishing.
As a result, they finished bottom of their group and did not win a single game. They must improve on that. The minimum target has to be remaining in Europe past the group stage campaign.
They have been drawn with Feyenoord, Atletico Madrid and Lazio. That is a tough group and yet, it is possible to get something out of it. A few wins here and there, and the Hoops might have a chance of making the Last 16 or at least finishing third to drop down to the Europa League.
Feyenoord handed major problem for Celtic match
Feyenoord do not find themselves in the best shape heading into the game against Celtic though. They could be without multiple players on the day.
As reported by the Daily Record, Ayase Ueda is a doubt after picking up an injury while on international duty with Japan. Santiago Gimenez is suspended for the first two group stage matches. Justin Bijlow is also set to miss the game after breaking his wrist, while Lutsharel Geertruida is a doubt as well.
Thus, it looks like Feyenoord might not be at full strength when they face Celtic at De Kuip. Of course, Celtic won’t be either, as the Hoops have a number of key starters on the sidelines due to injuries.