Celtic faces a significant challenge as they prepare for the second leg of their Europa League playoff against Stuttgart. After suffering a disappointing 4-1 defeat in the first leg, Celtic must now travel to Germany for the rematch.
Match Details
- Date: Thursday, February 26
- Kick-off Time: 5:45 PM GMT
- Venue: Neckarstadion, Stuttgart
- Competition: Europa League
- Broadcast: TNT Sports 2
Current Form
Stuttgart, currently sitting fourth in the Bundesliga, is hoping to reach the round of 16 in the Europa League for the first time since 2013. They demonstrated their attacking prowess recently, scoring at least three goals in six of their last eight matches.
In contrast, Celtic’s form has been concerning. Following their loss to Stuttgart, they fell 2-1 to Hibernian in the Scottish Premiership, leaving them six points behind league leaders Hearts. This situation is compounded by upcoming fixture demands, including a critical derby against Rangers on Sunday.
Key Statistics
- Celtic has never won an away game in Germany, losing 12 of 16 matches.
- Stuttgart has won 12 of their last 15 home games.
- Seven of Stuttgart’s last eight matches have gone over 2.5 goals.
- Both teams have scored in eight of Celtic’s last nine games.
- The Hoops are winless in their last 12 European knockout away matches.
Betting Insights
The odds for the match indicate Stuttgart as the favorites, with a 1-3 chance to win. Meanwhile, Celtic’s odds stand at 5-1, with a draw priced at 15-4.
Predicted Line-ups
Here’s how both teams are expected to line up:
Stuttgart (4-2-3-1)
- Nubel; Assignon, Jacquez, Jeltsch, Mittelstadt; Karazor, Andres; El Khannouss, Undav, Leweling; Demirovic
Celtic (4-3-3)
- Schmeichel, Araujo, Trusty, Scales, Saracchi; Hatate, McGregor, McCowan; Yang, Cvancara, Tounekti
Conclusion
Celtic faces an uphill battle in Stuttgart. With recent performances faltering, they must find a way to overcome their past failures and salvage pride in this crucial European tie.
