Champions League: Celtic vs Borussia Dortmund, Tuesday, at 8.0 – Live on Virgin Media Two and TNT Sports 2
Usually, previous devastating encounters in Munich, Madrid, Paris and Barcelona would make Celtic approach their Champions League game against Borussia Dortmund with some apprehension. Contrarily, the vibrant confidence radiated by Brendan Rodgers indicates that his team has found its rhythm before many others. Although Rodgers isn’t assuring a resounding victory against last year’s runners-up, he is convinced that such result is within reach.
Rodgers acknowledged that their recent performance for the past six to seven months has improved tremendously, and now they’re at a level where they can compete with the top players. He admitted the challenge of playing against a team that’s contending at the uppermost level of professional football, but believes that Celtic can still prove to be a tough opponent, with or without ball possession. Celtic’s game-plan involves aggressive pressing, quick running, and relentless effort. Rodgers expects his side to demonstrate their resilience, even when their opponent’s quality becomes overbearing. He’s excited about seeing Celtic’s football and speed pose a threat against other teams.
Celtic’s away game at Dortmund involves a potential for a Champions League upset.
In other news, Atlético Madrid could have its stadium wholly or partially closed due to post-derby disorder.
Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Manchester United remains uncertain for the next couple of matches.
Despite appearing formless, uninspired, and immature, Erik ten Hag’s United ship sails on.
Rodgers firmly believes in the transformative potential of the Celtic squad he guides. His team, which can compete differently in Europe from how it has done in the tough contests throughout the last decade, has experienced a shift in the mentality of its players. He considers their change as a combination of mindset, faith and experience. He says they’ve also recruited players who can bolster the team in critical field positions.
Celtic arrived in Germany, victoriously stepping off the plane on Monday after scoring nine wins in the same number of matches this season. With a tally of 33 goals to their credit and only four bouts conceded, their performance thus far has been outstanding. Despite a 3-0 win over Rangers, it was their 5-1 destruction of Slovan Bratislava to kick off their Champions League campaign that drew the most attention.
“We’ve hit a great stride,” stated Rodgers, the team’s manager. He further stressed the importance of the preseason games, where the encounter with big teams allowed the side to explore and structure their gameplay suited for this level of competition. “It’s been highly satisfying to observe our progress thus far,” Rodgers said, full of anticipation for the opportunities on the horizon.
However, Celtic will have to face the challenge without the contributions of integral central defender Cameron Carter-Vickers. The American player has stayed back in Glasgow for treatment on an injured toe.
Despite expectations of a confrontation between Rodgers and Nuri Sahin, his counterpart at Dortmund, their past professional history might not play into the encounter. Sahin, while on loan at Liverpool under Rodgers in 2012, was critical of the Northern Irish manager upon leaving Anfield. However, his career took an upward turn under J Klopp at Dortmund.
But Sahin showed no interest in ruminating over their bygone issues. Speaking of Rodgers, the former Turkish international commented, “His training sessions were captivating, and they continue to influence my coaching methodology.” Sahin spoke positively of his time at Liverpool under Rodgers, praising his emphasis on possession and play in the opposition’s half. His only concern was having to adapt to a different position due to Steven Gerrard occupying his usual spot. Regardless, Sahin had nothing but praise for Rodgers and his time under his guidance.
Rodgers referred to Sahin as “a decent chap”. As per the chief of Celtic, Sahin was passionate about football, was highly committed to his training, and carried himself professionally. Since leaving Liverpool and returning to Dortmund, Rodgers has been keeping an eye on his career progression. It will indeed be interesting to witness him venture into his initial efforts being a manager. Rodgers is certain Sahin will now grasp the ups and downs that accompany managerial roles and looks forward to observing him in this new light. – Guardian