Celtic Seeks Redemption Against LASK in Champions League Play-off
Celtic prepares to host Austrian champions LASK in the first leg of their play-off for a spot in the Champions League at Parkhead. The team, under the guidance of Martin O’Neill, aims to bounce back after a challenging previous season, which culminated in a Scottish league and cup double.
Last season, Celtic experienced an early exit from Champions League qualifying, losing on penalties to Kairat Almaty from Kazakhstan. The team is determined to avoid a repeat disappointment this year while LASK, fresh from winning their first Austrian league title since 1965, aims to reach the Champions League group stage for the first time.
Kick-off for the play-off first leg is scheduled for 8 PM on Wednesday, August 19, and fans can catch the action live on TNT Sports 1 and HBO Max.
Celtic has enjoyed a strong start to the current season, winning its first three matches against Dundee and Kilmarnock in the league and securing an impressive 4-0 victory over Dundee United in the League Cup. However, the team will face some adjustments, as Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain serves a suspension from a red card received while at Besiktas. Additionally, Alistair Johnston is sidelined due to injury, prompting coach O’Neill to consider replacements like Anthony Ralston or Colby Donovan.
Celtic’s likely starting lineup includes Sinisalo; Ralston, Carter-Vickers, Trusty, Tierney; McGregor, Hatate; Duran, Nygren, Tounekti; Hogh as they prepare to take on LASK.
Celtic bid to qualify for the Champions League as they host Austrian champions LASK in the first leg of their play-off at Parkhead.
Celtic were led to a Scottish league and cup double under Martin O’Neil, after a tumultuous season that began with Brendan Rogers and also featured the ill-fated reign of Wilfried Nancy.
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The Hoops crashed out of Champions League qualifying last season when they lost on penalties to Kazakhstan side Kairat Almaty, so will be determined to make it through this time.
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill speaking during a press conference at Celtic Park (PA)
LASK won their first Austrian league title since 1965 last season and have started their Bundesliga defence with three wins from three.
They will be bidding to reach the Champions League proper for the first time in their history while Celtic are attempting to make up for last year’s surprise absence.
When is Celtic v LASK?
The play-off first leg kicks off at 8pm on Wednesday 19 August.
How can I watch it?
It will be shown live on TNT Sports 1 and HBO Max.
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What is the Celtic team news?
Celtic have won their first three games of the season, beating Dundee and Kilmarnock in the league and thumping Dundee United 4-0 in the League Cup.
Arne Engels has been sold to West Ham but new signings Kasper Hogh and Camilo Duran have started well.
Celtic will be forced into at least one change with Alex Oxlade-Chamberland still serving a three-game due to a red card he received while playing for Besiktas in 2023.
And Everton target Alistair Johnston remains sidelined due to injury so will have to be replaced by Anthony Ralston or Colby Donovan.
Possible line-up
Celtic XI: Sinisalo; Ralston, Carter-Vickers, Trusty, Tierney; McGregor, Hatate; Duran, Nygren, Tounekti; Hogh
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