Celtic will be Slovan Bratislava’s first-ever opponent in the Champions League proper as anticipation builds ahead of the Bhoys’ opener in the competition next Wednesday.
The Slovak champions had to navigate their way through a challenging qualifying route to book their place in the league phase, defeating Struga, Celje, APOEL and FC Midytlland to progress.
Recently, they did suffer a surprise 5-0 home defeat to MSK Zilina in the Slovak Super Liga. However, they have since recovered with a 5-0 victory against AC Nitra in the Slovak Cup.
Dunajska Streda await this weekend before their travel to face Celtic in matchday one of the Champions League league phase in Glasgow.
Speaking after their cup victory, Slovan Bratislava coach Boris Kitka has opened up on his side’s chances of making strides at the top table.
Slovan Bratislava ‘realistic’ ahead of Celtic meeting
Speaking to Slovan Bratislava’s official website, Kitka has admitted the Slovak outfit may need to be ‘realistic’ as they take on the elite over the coming months for the first time in their history.
He stated: “We have to prepare for a challenging month, not only Dunajská Streda awaits us on Saturday, but then difficult battles with world-class clubs (including Celtic).
“For many of us, it will be the first time at this level. I believe that we will manage a difficult month in which we must not forget the domestic league, which is important.”
Kitka also stated on the professionalism shown in their cup victory: “The approach of the players was great, even knowing the difference in leagues and quality. Especially the players from the starting line-up really approached it as they should.
“We were dominant from the first minute, we had chances, we could have led by a bigger margin before halftime. Compliments also go to the home team, who wanted to share it with us and didn’t just stand at the back. Spaces were opening up for us that we knew how to use.”
Celtic cannot take Slovan Bratislava test for granted
On paper, Slovan Bratislava at home may appeal to Celtic as arguably their most favourable opportunity to get points on the board.
However, football isn’t linear, and they are there to compete on merit after seeing off some talented sides during their qualification path.
Celtic supporters know all too well the false dawns the club have had in Europe over recent years. Within that, there have been slip-ups against sides where they were favourites going into the tie.
Remembering that will be necessary for the Bhoys as they search for valuable points in the league phase. Hopefully, they can put on a show and give us all a night to remember at Celtic Park!
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