Celtic fans will be overjoyed after yesterday’s victory over Rangers, which capped the end of a fine week for the Bhoys on several fronts.
In a hectic few days, the Bhoys found out their opponents in the Champions League league phase, finished the transfer window, and had the small matter of putting their rivals to bed on home soil.
Evaluating the three-pronged timeline of events, Celtic can be delighted with their work on the pitch and in the market. They also have exciting European ties to look forward to, including trips to Borussia Dortmund, Atalanta and Aston Villa.
At home, Slovan Bratislava, Young Boys, and Club Brugge represent opportunities to get points on the board in front of a raucous crowd hungry to see progression.
Looking at the weekend’s results, Celtic supporters will take encouragement from one of their opponents’ shock results in the lead-up to their trip to Glasgow.
Slovan Bratislava suffer heavy home defeat
Slovan Bratislava made headlines across Europe by reaching the Champions League proper for the first time in their history after defeating Struga, Celje, APOEL and FC Midtjylland in their qualification ties.
Nevertheless, days after securing the historic achievement, they suffered a shock 5-0 home defeat to MSK Zilina in the Slovak Super Liga, with the visitors moving a point behind them in the league standings.
It should be pointed out that Slovan Bratislava remain top of the table by a point, but a heavy loss at home isn’t likely to inspire confidence despite their fantastic exploits on the continent.
Celtic take on the reigning Slovak champions in Glasgow on September 18th, signalling their first instalment of new format football under Brendan Rodgers.
The Irishman and his group at Lennoxtown will be desperate to kickstart their European campaign with three points, which would put them on a solid early footing to navigate the fresh Swiss-style league table.
For now, Celtic have the chance to kick their feet up during the international break before the congested fixture schedule starts to take shape.
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