Former Lazio and Man City attacker Rolando Bianchi reckons Celtic will be competitive against the Italians on Wednesday night – and the rest of their UEFA Champions League group.
The Bhoys have matches against Feyenoord, Atletico Madrid and Lazio ahead, having lost to the Dutch side on matchday one. The next big test is hosting Maurizio Sarri’s side this week, under the lights of a sold-out Celtic Park.
Celtic legend Kenny Dalglish has already tipped the Bhoys for victory and Bianchi reckons that his old side have a tough night ahead them, too.
He said [Sunday Post, 01/10 print edition]: “Group E looks a difficult one for all teams. After their win against Celtic, Feyenoord must be the favourites to win the group, but I think Lazio can still do it.
“As for Celtic themselves, I would expect them to be competitive – not just against Lazio in Glasgow but in all the ties they play. From what I have seen of them, they are a young, athletic, side who have the national trait of never giving up.
“And of course, they have the backing of the crowd behind them, which will help on Wednesday. I like Scottish football in general. It is very dynamic, high tempo and full of energy. We have a growing respect for your game in Italy.”
This Celtic side still have a lot to prove at European level. Despite brilliant treble success last term, their Champions League form was poor. The result in Feyenoord at the start of this campaign was far from ideal, either.
However, Wednesday night is a big chance to deliver a statement win and announce to Europe that the Bhoys mean business in this tournament. Lazio will provide a stiff challenge, but you’d have to say this is a winnable game. If Celtic have any ambitions at all in this group, a positive result will be needed.
In other news, Motherwell publish sensational new footage of Celtic heartbreaker and celebration drama.
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