Celtic’s atmosphere on Champions League nights is one of the most famed commodities in Europe’s premier competition.
Undoubtedly, the roar heard at Parkhead under the lights has already inspired some brilliant results this campaign, taking the Bhoys’ tally to seven points from four league phase matches.
On matchday one, Celtic thrashed Slovan Bratislava on home soil, helping to record their first win in an opener since the tournament rebranded back in 1992.
After a heavy defeat in Dortmund and a solid point away to Atalanta, the Bhoys saw off RB Leipzig in their last Champions League match before the international break, leaving them on the brink of securing a knockout playoff berth.
Once Celtic’s trip to Tynecastle is complete, a win against Club Brugge next Wednesday would guarantee progression. In light of what is set to be another special night in Glasgow’s east end, Paul Lambert has honed in on the power that sets Parkhead apart from the rest.
Paul Lambert on Celtic’s ‘special’ European night atmosphere
Speaking on The Football News Show, Lambert believes Celtic’s ‘special’ atmosphere on a European night can help to inspire more performances like the ones fans have already seen at home in the Champions League this season.
He stated when prompted on the subject: “What you do get at Parkhead on a European night is a special atmosphere. It’s different from the league, the only one that would probably rival it if they do get their head together with Rangers and put the fans back into the stadiums; that’s the game that rivals everything, the Celtic vs Rangers one because of the two sets of clubs and fans and everything it’s got.
“But European nights are special, without a doubt. I think even Lionel Messi even said it’s one fo the best atmospheres that he played in was at Parkhead, so the fans definitely turn up. European games have always been like that, it’s a special atmosphere and it’s loud, it’s proper loud!
“It can go against you as well if you get Celtic on the back foot, but most times it’s not; Celtic are on the front foot at Parkhead, and it’s a special, special atmosphere.”
Celtic’s remaining Champions League matches set exciting scene
Four matches stand between Celtic and their Champions League fate, and it is fair to say anticipation is bubbling below the surface as the Bhoys look to cement their place in the knockout stages.
Brugge, Dinamo Zagreb, Young Boys and Aston Villa present a quartet of difficult challenges for Brendan Rodgers to overcome. Each carry their own threat, make no mistake about that.
Regardless, Celtic have earned the right to fancy their chances against anyone on the continent, especially on home soil.
Hopefully, the Bhoys can see themselves over the line as history beckons on the European stage this campaign.
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