Celtic host Bayern Munich next Tuesday in the return leg of their Group B Champions League encounter, and a loss will very much end their chances of advancing to the round of 16.
Not many, including Celtic themselves, expect them to beat the German champions and subsequently secure a berth in the next rounds.
An Europa League round of 32 berth is a more realistic target, and having picked up 3 points on the road against Anderlecht, victory against the Belgians at Parkhead next month will ensure Celtic continue in Europe’s 2nd tier competition in February.
However, Celtic could be playing in the Champions League instead as UEFA themselves believe the Scottish giants could hand Munich defeat on matchday 4.
According to their official website, teams in recent times have overturned results from matchday 3 against all odds.
Manchester City did against Barcelona last term, winning 3-1 at the Etihad despite a 4-nil loss at Camp Nou.
In 2010, Arsenal trounced Shakhtar Donetsk 5-1 at home but lost 2-1 in the reverse fixtures.
As per UEFA: “Over the past 14 seasons (since the competition’s current format was introduced) only 45% of sides have picked up six points from matchdays three and four.”
Going with history, home advantage can’t be overruled in Champions League football, and Celtic supporters could end up inspiring their side to a famous victory next week.
It could be a perfect time to put that FIFA Best Fans award into good use.
