Brendan Rodgers Reveals Celtic’s Mindset for Champions League Clash Against RB Leipzig
Celtic FC manager Brendan Rodgers has emphasized the importance of every Champions League game, likening each match to a “cup final” for his team. As they prepare to face RB Leipzig on Tuesday, Rodgers stressed the need for Celtic to match the German side’s must-win mentality.
The Road to Celtic Park
Celtic FC comes into this match with a mixed bag of results in the Champions League. A 5-1 win over Slovan Bratislava was followed by a 7-1 thrashing at the hands of Borussia Dortmund. However, the Hoops rebounded with a gritty goalless draw against Atalanta. Rodgers’ team will look to build on this momentum as they face RB Leipzig.
RB Leipzig’s Desperation
RB Leipzig striker Andre Silva has likened the game to a final, given their disappointing start to the campaign. With three losses in their first three matches, Leipzig is desperate for points. Rodgers acknowledged Leipzig’s desperation but emphasized Celtic’s equal determination.
“They’ve had tough games, they’ll obviously be disappointed with the Juve game… But thankfully we are too, and that should mean for a really, really fantastic game,” Rodgers said.
Familiarity with Marco Rose’s Tactics
Rodgers has experience facing Marco Rose’s teams, having encountered RB Salzburg during his first spell at Celtic. He recognizes Leipzig’s Red Bull philosophy, which emphasizes pressing, aggression, and physicality.
“I know how Marc Rose’s teams will play… You know they want to press, you know they want to be aggressive, you know they’re going to have physicality in the game,” Rodgers explained.
Learning from Past Experiences
Celtic’s campaign has been marked by highs and lows. Rodgers acknowledged the lessons learned from these games.
“Listen, I think Red Bull Leipzig will be no different to Atalanta and Borussia Dortmund… A top team right towards the top of their league,” Rodgers said.
Key to Success
Rodgers emphasized the importance of mindset in determining Celtic’s success.
“This group of players, I think what carries any individual or any team is the mindset. This is a team that’s mindset is to improve and to be better,” Rodgers stated.
Champions League Challenge
Rodgers relishes the challenge of competing against top European teams.
“It’s the highest level of European football, so we’re playing against a lot of teams that are superior to us and from superior leagues,” Rodgers said.
Celtic’s Predicted Line-Up
Celtic’s predicted starting XI includes:
- Kasper Schmeichel (GK)
- Alistair Johnston (RB)
- Cameron Carter-Vickers (CB)
- Auston Trusty (CB)
- Alex Valle (LB)
- Callum McGregor (CM)
- Arne Engels (CM)
- Reo Hatate (CM)
- Nicolas Kuhn (RW)
- Kyogo Furuhashi (ST)
- Daizen Maeda (LW)
RB Leipzig’s Threats
RB Leipzig boasts talented players, including Andre Silva, Christopher Nkunku, and Dominik Szoboszlai. Rodgers is aware of the threats they pose.
“Leipzig has quality players, and we’ll need to be at our best to contain them,” Rodgers said.
Celtic’s Advantages
Celtic’s home advantage and team cohesion will be crucial in the match.
“Our fans will be electric, and that will give us an extra boost,” Rodgers said.
Conclusion
Brendan Rodgers has instilled a winning mentality in his Celtic team, emphasizing the importance of every Champions League game. As they face RB Leipzig, Celtic will look to match their opponents’ desperation and secure a crucial victory.
References
Celtic FC
RB Leipzig
Champions League
Brendan Rodgers
Marco Rose
Related Articles
- Celtic FC Transfer News and Rumors
- Champions League Standings and Predictions
- Brendan Rodgers’ Tactics and Strategies
- RB Leipzig’s Bundesliga Performance
Would you like more information on Celtic’s transfer news or Champions League standings?
Leave a Reply