Referee for upcoming Celtic-Lazio fixture has been confirmed

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The referee for Celtic’s upcoming natch against Lazio has been confirmed, and it is an appointment which could be a good omen for the Hoops.

The Scottish Sun has reported that Croatian referee Ivan Bebek will take charge of Thursday night’s Europa League game.

Interestingly, he has taken charge of Celtic on three occasions previously. The good news is that the Hoops are unbeaten in those three fixtures.

Hoops boss has been officiated by man in middle

The most recent game was a 1-1 draw with Suduva last season. Neil Lennon does have experience of being refereed by the official as Celtic boss.

He took charge of Celtic’s 2-1 win over Braga, back in 2010. His other fixture also ended in a Celtic triumph under Neil Lennon, the 2-1 win over Ajax in 2013. Interestingly, he sent-off Nir Bitton for a late challenge in that game.

So, the omens point towards a Celtic win over Lazio, or at least the Hoops avoiding defeat. Of course, it is up to Celtic to perform well on the night to ensure that they pick up at least a point.

Performances in group stages have been excellent

Celtic’s performances in the Europa League group stages so far have been very good. They were unfortunate not pick up the three points against Rennes, and were comfortable winners against Cluj.

The match against Lazio will be the sternest test yet. However, the current Celtic side should not fear taking on the two-time Serie A champions. They should go into the game full of confidence. That will hopefully be shown on the pitch, and the Hoops will pick up the three points.