Celtic Hosts LASK in Champions League Play-Off Showdown
Celtic is set to kick off its Champions League campaign on Wednesday evening, welcoming LASK for the first leg of the play-off round. The players are likely feeling buoyed by their recent 4-0 victory over Dundee United in the League Cup at Tannadice Park. However, the Austrian club, which recently claimed its first league title in over six decades, promises to present a sturdy challenge.
LASK’s manager, Dietmar Kühbauer, acknowledges Celtic as the favorites for this clash but emphasizes the need for his team to adopt a balanced and proactive strategy rather than focusing solely on defense. This midweek match marks the first competitive meeting between the two domestic champions, creating a tactical showdown for a coveted spot in the lucrative league phase of the tournament.
In terms of lineup expectations, Celtic is considering signings for their goalkeeper position but feels secure with Viljami Sinisalo’s strong performances since stepping in for the injured Kasper Schmeichel.
The Hoops face a setback with the injury of Alistair Johnston, which may lead manager Martin O’Neill to opt for Colby Donovan at right back, who has recently been favored over Anthony Ralston. Liam Scales started as left back against Dundee United but might be replaced by Kieran Tierney, whose dynamic play and precise crosses are essential. Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty are expected to continue as starting central defenders.
In midfield, Mika Baur has been introduced to replace Arne Engels. After featuring as a substitute against Dundee United, he is anticipated to make his first start at Parkhead, partnering with skipper Callum McGregor in a ‘double pivot’ role due to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s suspension. Benjamin Nygren, who has impressed since his transfer last summer, will retain his position as the ‘number 10’. Camilo Duran, having contributed with both a goal and an assist recently, is likely to play from the right. Yang Hyun-jun is expected to return after missing Saturday’s game, while Sebastian Tounekti may keep his place on the left wing following his notable performance in Yang’s absence.
In the attack, Kasper Høgh, having already made waves in Scottish football with a hat-trick against Kilmarnock, will be crucial for the Celts. The club-record signing must replicate his previous Champions League success to spearhead the offensive efforts against LASK.
After a blistering start to their domestic season, Celtic will begin their Champions League campaign on Wednesday night by hosting LASK in the first leg of the play-off round. The spirit must be high in the camp after the weekend’s thumping 4-0 League Cup win at Tannadice Park against Dundee United. But the Austrian heavyweights, who won their first league title in 61 years, would be more resolute in deep defence.
Meanwhile, the LASK boss Dietmar Kühbauer considers the home side favourites for this European encounter. However, he calls for a balanced and proactive performance in Glasgow rather than a purely defensive approach, and this midweek contest would be a tactical battle between two domestic champions in their first-ever competitive meeting for a lucrative league-phase spot in this coveted tournament.
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Predicted 4-2-3-1 Celtic Lineup To Face LASK
Defence
The Hoops are weighing up a move for another goalkeeper. But they are not in a rush, thanks to Viljami Sinisalo’s command and composure ever since replacing the injured Kasper Schmeichel between the sticks earlier this year.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – JULY 25: Cameron Carter-Vickers of Celtic making a pass during Celtic v AC Milan in a pre-season friendly at Celtic Park on July 25, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)
Alistair Johnston’s injury is a massive blow, and the gaffer Martin O’Neill is likely to rely on Colby Donovan down the right, having preferred him over Anthony Ralston in recent fixtures. Liam Scales got the nod against the Tangerines as a left fullback, but could make way for Kieran Tierney, who remains the preferred choice for his flair, finesse and trademark crosses. The USMNT duo Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty should continue as the first-team central defensive pairing.
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Midfield
Mika Baur has been brought in to replace Arne Engels in the middle of the park. The German youngster made his debut against Dundee United as a second-half substitute, and the manager should now hand him a start at Parkhead over the suspended Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain alongside skipper Callum McGregor deep as the ‘double pivot’.
Benjamin Nygren, a revelation since his low-key transfer last summer, must retain his ‘number 10’ status. Camilo Duran has been deployed from the right, and his assist and goal in recent games would boost his confidence after losing his ‘number 9’ role to Kasper Høgh. Yang Hyun-jun missed Saturday’s game, but O’Neill expects him to be available for tomorrow’s test. Sebastian Tounekti grabbed the opportunity in his absence and should keep his place on the left, having scored and assisted in the second half. Haissem Hassan could be involved from the bench, as Egypt’s World Cup hero needs more time to rebuild his match fitness.
Attack
Høgh has already made his presence known in Scottish football by netting a hat-trick against Kilmarnock. He enjoyed an exquisite run in last season’s Champions League in Bodø/Glimt’s colours, and the Celts’ club-record signing must exhibit his poaching traits once again while spearheading the attack.
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