When Celtic take part in a European group stage it’s always worth checking on the progress of our opponents as the season develops.
With Neil Lennon’s side sitting top of Group E on four points after two matches, we’re looking comfortable right now.
However, there’s a double header against Lazio on the horizon and we can’t get complacent.
So how are the Italians, Rennes and Cluj faring domestically as we head into another European matchday?
Lazio’s comeback
The Rome side were well on their way to a hammering at the weekend, which would have been perfect preparation from our point of view ahead of Thursday’s match.
They were 3-0 down by half-time against Serie A high-flyers Atalanta during their league match at the weekend. That scoreline remained with around 20 minutes to go, before a stunning comeback ensured the home side would secure a point.
Ciro Immobile was the hero of the hour, scoring two penalties and assisting another strike.
With ten goals in just nine matches this season, Immobile is one of the hottest forwards in Europe right now and we’ll have to stop him as a priority if we’re to get anything out of Thursday’s match.
Let’s hope that rousing second half performance does not raise their confidence levels too much.
Rennes’ dismal run continues
For Ligue 1 side Rennes there was more heartbreak. The French outfit fell to a late 3-2 defeat away to Monaco after battling so hard for a point.
The result means they are now winless in a massive nine matches, five of which have been defeats. That run stretches all the way back to August.
What started as a potentially positive campaign has shifted into disaster. In 12th position in the league, they are just two points clear of the relegation play-off spot and three clear of the outright relegation zone.
We’ll be hoping that kind of form continues ahead of our next match against them at Celtic Park on 28th November.
Cluj remain on the title march
For Romanian champions Cluj, it was vital they got back to winning ways after back-to-back defeats against Celtic and Viitorul Constanta.
A 2-0 home win against Universitatea Craiova on Saturday has ensured they are top of the table after 13 matches. Craiova have been pushing them hard in the early goings this season so it was a big result in their quest for another title.
They’ll head into Thursday’s match away to Rennes with a bit of confidence after beating Lazio in the opening group match.
Can both the Hoops and the Romanians create a bit of daylight between the top two and the third and fourth positions in Group E?
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
