Celtic stands on the brink of a historic moment as they prepare to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League knockout phase play-off. This marks their first appearance in the knockout rounds in 12 years, signaling a significant achievement for the Scottish club. Under the leadership of manager Brendan Rodgers, Celtic aims to overturn a narrow deficit from the first leg, which ended 2-1 in favor of Bayern Munich. The late goal from Daizen Maeda provides hope and momentum for Celtic as they head into the crucial second leg on Tuesday evening.
Brendan Rodgers, known for his strategic acumen, is optimistic about Celtic's chances against Bayern Munich. Despite the first leg setback, Rodgers emphasizes that the team has evolved since their 7-1 defeat by Borussia Dortmund earlier in the competition. He believes that Celtic has learned major lessons from that experience and demonstrated progress at this level. Rodgers is urging his players to approach the game without fear and to capitalize on every opportunity they create.
"It is a challenge at this level. But it's something that we want to embrace. When you get to this point, you want to play top-level teams. I think it's just spelling out that you come to this level and you have to play without any fear." – Brendan Rodgers
The fitness of Bayern Munich's striker Harry Kane is under scrutiny ahead of the second leg. Kane, who sat out training on Monday afternoon, remains a doubt for the match. Bayern's head coach Vincent Kompany expressed uncertainty about Kane's availability, adding an element of unpredictability to their lineup.
Rodgers is contemplating his options for Celtic's attack, with Daizen Maeda and Adam Idah both being considered for a central role. Maeda's impact in the first leg, particularly through his pressing when he moved inside, helped change the dynamics of the game. Rodgers acknowledges Maeda's contribution and is weighing whether to start him or Idah through the middle in the upcoming clash.
"Then we know that we're in with a chance as long as you can take that opportunity to give your very, very best. The regret is always if you don't, you just turn up too late for the game." – Brendan Rodgers
Celtic's tactical approach against Bayern Munich has been informed by past experiences. In their match against Borussia Dortmund, they chased the game after scoring early, a strategy that didn't yield favorable results. Rodgers has emphasized the importance of being stable, steady, and compact in their gameplay.
"In the Dortmund game, we chased the game. We had scored early on and the lessons were from that. Our plan was to be stable and steady and compact." – Brendan Rodgers
On the opposing side, Vincent Kompany is preparing Bayern Munich for various scenarios. He stressed the need for his team to be ready for any situation, whether it involves sitting back or pressing high.
"A lot can happen in a game like this. We need to be prepared for everything, whether that's sitting back or pressing high." – Vincent Kompany
Rodgers' motivational words resonate with his players as he encourages them to leave everything on the field. He stresses playing without regrets and giving their absolute best against one of Europe's elite teams.
"I think there are worse things in life that can happen than losing a game of football. So for us, we want to ensure that when we come in after the game, if we don't go through, we've given it absolutely everything." – Brendan Rodgers
With no second chances in this decisive match, Celtic must seize their opportunity to make history. The players' mentality and professionalism are pivotal as they step onto the pitch.
"I look at this game and I'm so glad I have this group of players that have a great mentality and incredible professionalism and they can go and show that." – Brendan Rodgers
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