Shakhtar Donetsk sporting director Darijo Srna has given his reaction to this evening’s UEFA Champions League draw, with Celtic being drawn against the Ukrainians, Real Madrid and RB Leipzig.
It’s a tough and exciting group for all concerned and Srna is looking forward to his team testing themselves at the highest level in difficult circumstances.
He told the club’s official website: “There are no easy groups in the Champions League. We will fight to the last. Real Madrid is, of course, Real Madrid. We already played with Celtic 18 and 15 years ago. Leipzig are a good team. So let’s put it this way: it could have been worse, it could have been better.
“We have a young team, a new coach. The most important thing is to enjoy the games that are waiting for us. Unfortunately, there will not be full stands in Ukraine, but I am sure there will be in Warsaw. Many of our fans, Ukrainians, will come – they deserve, like all of Ukraine, that we demonstrate good, bright football, so that they get pleasure from our game.
“Leipzig, like us, did not start too well: they have two points in three games. Celtic I haven’t watched, but Real Madrid is Real Madrid. Let’s analyse.”
Srna actually played in all four meetings between the Bhoys and the Ukrainians as a player, so will have a good sense of the atmosphere and experience that awaits his team.
Celtic have won both home matches against the outfit, also losing twice away from home.
However, the significance of the team being displaced in Poland can’t be overlooked, as unfortunate as their situation is. It will be far harder for them to play this group stage than in previous years.
From a selfish Celtic point of view, we can definitely be competitive against them and make a push for the third-placed spot in the group. Although it will be a tough battle, no doubt.
In other news, Moritz Jenz gives beaming reaction to Celtic Champions League draw.
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