Atletico Madrid defender makes superb Celtic claim

Celtic fans will know that the club face a tough test when they head to the Spanish capital to take on Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium. This will arguably be the most difficult game of the Hoops’ season. But at the same time, it is a big opportunity for them to prove themselves at the very highest level in Europe.

Celtic certainly showed what they were capable of in the previous fixture against Atletico Madrid at Parkhead. One could argue that they should have won on that day.

It was Celtic who took the lead twice. And they had the numerical advantage late on as well, after Rodrigo De Paul was sent off. No matter the result, one thing Brendan Rodgers’ side did prove was that they were capable of competing with a team like Atletico Madrid.

There have been nothing but positive things coming out of the Atletico Madrid camp about Celtic since then. It is very clear that the Spanish side were left impressed by what they saw at Parkhead and are not taking the Scottish champions lightly.

Atletico Madrid defender makes superb Celtic claim

Mario Hermoso was part of Atletico Madrid’s backline at Parkhead. And as reported by 67 Hail Hail, he said in his pre-match press conference:

"“It was very difficult at Celtic Park. We hope to do better in front of our fans and get those three points we need.“You always need to learn and try to correct things. You need to keep learning from your rivals. Celtic proved to be a very intense team having very vertical players. Players who were really complicated to mark and knew how to move between lines.“So, it’s really important to start the game correctly because that sets the standard for the game. We need to improve on that tomorrow. They did very well when we faced them at Celtic Park. We need to turn that around and start really well. I am sure that will make a difference.”"

Celtic will have to be at their very best if they are to take anything out of their game against Atletico Madrid. Now, it remains to be seen if they are successful in rising up to the occasion and putting in a big performance. A lot will depend on this result.

If Celtic can get a draw or somehow win away against Atletico Madrid, they will have a chance at getting into the knockout phases or at least finishing third. If they lose, then it might be another bottom place finish for the Hoops.