Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has issued a rallying cry to his players as they prepare for a season-defining Champions League playoff second leg against Bayern Munich. The Scottish champions must overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first leg in Glasgow if they hope to progress to the lucrative group stage.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Rodgers emphasized the need for bravery and belief from his squad, despite the daunting task that awaits them at the Allianz Arena.
There’s no second chance. We’ve got to be clever, bright and brave and if we can do that, history has shown that in sport anything can happen.
Brendan Rodgers, Celtic Manager
Celtic Underdogs Against Bavarian Giants
Few are giving Celtic much hope of upsetting the odds in Munich. Bayern boast a star-studded squad featuring the likes of Thomas Müller, Leroy Sané, and Jamal Musiala. The Bundesliga champions also have the benefit of home advantage after Robert Lewandowski’s late winner in the first leg.
However, Rodgers believes his players are capable of rising to the occasion if they can execute their game plan to perfection. The Northern Irishman wants Celtic to be proactive rather than parking the bus.
You come to this level and you have to play without any fear. There’s worse things in life than losing a game of football so we want to ensure when we come in after the game, if we don’t go through, we’ve given it absolutely everything.
Brendan Rodgers, Celtic Manager
Key Battles In Bavaria
For Celtic to stand any chance of causing an upset, they will need big performances from their key players:
- Callum McGregor – The Celtic captain must lead by example in midfield and try to disrupt Bayern’s rhythm.
- Kyogo Furuhashi – The Japanese forward’s pace and movement could be crucial on the counter-attack.
- Cameron Carter-Vickers – The American defender will need to marshal a backline that shipped two away goals in the first leg.
Bayern have some injury concerns of their own, with striker Harry Kane a doubt after missing training with a facial injury. However, Julian Nagelsmann’s side have incredible strength in depth and will still be heavy favorites.
Celtic’s European Dream On The Line
Progression to the Champions League group stage would be a major boost for Celtic, both financially and in terms of prestige. But Rodgers is urging his players to focus on the process rather than the prize.
I’m so happy I have this group of players with incredible mentality and professionalism. If they show that then we know we’re in with a chance.
Brendan Rodgers, Celtic Manager
Celtic famously stunned Barcelona with a 2-1 win at Celtic Park in the 2012-13 Champions League group stage. Rodgers will be hoping for more of that underdog spirit as his side looks to defy the odds once again.
Everyone will look at this game with us as underdog but we’re still very mindful to be super-competitive and, if we can play to our level, we can make the game very difficult for Bayern.
Brendan Rodgers, Celtic Manager
The chips may be stacked against them, but Celtic travel to Bavaria knowing they have nothing to lose and everything to gain. An epic European night awaits for Brendan Rodgers and his brave Bhoys.
