As Celtic gear up for their Champions League encounter against Atletico Madrid, Brendan Rodgers is buoyed by the Scottish side’s continental advancements, particularly following a rousing 2-2 standoff in Glasgow. The stage is set at the Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid for a pivotal Tuesday night clash, kicking off at 20:00 GMT. Fans can follow the action through comprehensive coverage including live commentary on BBC Radio Scotland Extra/DAB/810MW and a real-time text play-by-play on the Sport News Center website & app.
Midway through the group phase, Rodgers draws optimism from Celtic’s Champions League progression as they prepare to lock horns with Atletico Madrid. Despite lingering at the base of Group E with a sole point garnered from an electric draw against the Spanish squad in Glasgow, Rodgers remains steadfast.
“The momentum has been building with every match,” Rodgers declared. “While the results may not have mirrored the caliber of our play, the performances have certainly gained steam.
“It’s vital we maintain this trajectory and strive for points in the upcoming matches.
“Detractors will point to our singular point, but for us, it’s the continual elevation of confidence through performance that counts.”
Celtic demonstrated formidable tenacity by seizing the lead twice in their previous bout with Atletico, and Rodgers commended his team’s versatility under pressure in the latter half against the 2014 and 2016 finalists.
“Adaptability is key for us,” he emphasized. “Our aim is to consistently assert our style while also preparing to staunchly defend against a top-tier opponent.”
Rodgers is acutely aware of Celtic’s track record in Spain, where they have experienced nine straight losses. Avoiding a tenth is crucial, especially with a trip to Lazio and a home game against Feyenoord on the horizon.
“We understand the stakes of the Madrid game,” Rodgers acknowledged. “Securing a positive outcome is crucial as we head into the last two group stage fixtures.”
Team Dynamics
Celtic’s lineup is adapting to challenges, with midfielder Reo Hatate ruled out for the remainder of the group stage due to a hamstring injury incurred in the first clash with Atletico. Matt O’Riley is set to reclaim his starting role after being rested for the recent 3-0 win over Ross County, which leaves either David Turnbull or Paulo Bernardo to step in for Hatate. Injuries also sideline Stephen Welsh and Liel Abada.
Atletico must contend without Memphis Depay, Samuel Lino, and Thomas Lemar due to various ailments.
Picking Celtic’s Starting Eleven
It’s time to step into the manager’s shoes and draft your ideal Celtic XI. Whether it’s the squad you hope to see or anticipate Rodgers will select, shape the team to your strategy and confirm your lineup.
Mutual Respect in a Tight Group
Diego Simeone, Atletico Madrid’s tactician, acknowledged the close competition in the group. “Every match is a potential turning point,” Simeone said. “The mutual respect with Celtic is palpable. We aim to start strong against a team known for their high-pressure gameplay.”
Scoring Streaks in Spotlight
Post-Glasgow, Atletico enjoyed a victory against Alaves but stumbled at Las Palmas, highlighting the scoring prowess of Alvaro Morata and Antoine Griezmann. Morata, with goals in Glasgow and 10 season goals, and Griezmann, with eight in the last nine, are in the limelight.
Match by the Numbers
Atletico’s unbeaten streak in European clashes with Celtic stands tall, while Celtic’s own record in Spain speaks of challenges, with no wins since a 2004 draw at Barcelona. Atletico’s Champions League season remains unblemished for the first time since 2019-20, yet Celtic battles a dry spell of clean sheets and victories in away matches. Shot statistics depict Celtic’s conservative approach versus Atletico’s efficiency.
Griezmann aims to break his streak and score in three consecutive Champions League games, whereas Morata has found a group-stage groove. For Celtic, Kyogo Furuhashi’s back-to-back goals have him eyeing a feat last achieved by Joe Craig in 1977.
Your Participation
Get in on the action by rating the players throughout or post-game. Remember, the rating window concludes 30 minutes after the final whistle. The scale? A 1 might suggest retirement, while a 10 equals unrivaled mastery.
Prepare for a strategic ballet on the pitch, where every move, feint, and goal carries the weight of history and hope.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Celtic-Atletico Champions League
What time does the Atletico Madrid vs Celtic Champions League match start?
The match kicks off at 20:00 GMT on Tuesday, 7 November.
Where can fans follow the Atletico Madrid vs Celtic game?
Fans can listen to the game on BBC Radio Scotland Extra/DAB/810MW and follow live text commentary on the Sport News Center website & app.
How has Celtic performed in their Champions League group so far?
Celtic currently sits at the bottom of Group E with one point, which was earned in a dynamic 2-2 draw with Atletico Madrid in Glasgow.
What are Brendan Rodgers’ thoughts on Celtic’s performance in Europe?
Brendan Rodgers is optimistic about Celtic’s improvement and is looking to build on the team’s performances to gain points in the remaining group matches.
Are there any key player absences for Celtic and Atletico Madrid?
Yes, Celtic will miss midfielder Reo Hatate due to a hamstring injury, while Atletico Madrid will be without Memphis Depay, Samuel Lino, and Thomas Lemar due to injuries.
How can fans get involved during the Atletico Madrid vs Celtic match?
Fans can rate the players out of 10 during or after the game, with the rater closing 30 minutes after the final whistle.
What is at stake for Celtic in their match against Atletico Madrid?
A positive result is crucial for Celtic to improve their standing in the group and carry momentum into their final two games against Lazio and Feyenoord.
More about Celtic-Atletico Champions League
- Metropolitano Stadium: Venue Info
- BBC Radio Scotland: Live Coverage
- Sport News Center: Match Commentary
- Celtic’s Champions League Journey
- UEFA Champions League Group E Standings
- Player Ratings Feature: How To
- Injury Updates: Celtic FC
- Atletico Madrid’s Team News
7 comments
Rodgers always talks a good game, let’s see if the bhoys can back it up this time, atletico won’t be easy especially not at their home turf
hatate being out is a real blow, he’s been solid for us this season. who’s stepping up to fill those boots? o’Riley’s got big shoes to fill
everyones talking bout celtic’s away record in spain… statistics are one thing but each game is different, hoping for a surprise here
man i can’t believe celtic are still hanging in there, that last match was wild! how they gonna step it up in Madrid tho??
does anyone really rate these player ratings things? i never know what to give, like is a 6 good or bad lol
I saw atletico play at las palmas, wasn’t their best game. maybe celtic can take advantage of that. tho griezmann and morata are on fire, gotta watch them close
as an atleti fan i respect what celtic brings to the field, but simeone’s got our guys drilled and ready. it’s our home game to lose