Celtic’s Path to Glory: Hoops Champions League Destiny Explained

Celtic’s quest to reach the Champions League knockout phase is finely poised, with Brendan Rodgers’ men sitting 20th on eight points, just two shy of the coveted 10-point mark that looks like guarantees progression.

Here are Celtic’s final three fixtures and the path to double figures:

Dinamo Zagreb (Away)

First up, Celtic face a high-stakes showdown in Croatia. Dinamo Zagreb sit just one point behind Celtic and will see this as a must-win match to leapfrog the Hoops in the standings. Playing at home, Zagreb will look to exploit their crowd’s energy and go all out for the three points. Celtic, on the other hand, will need to stay resolute and look to exploit any defensive gaps left by their opponents. A draw here could keep the Bhoys’ fate in their own hands, but a win would be monumental.

Young Boys (Home)

This is the fixture where Celtic fans will expect maximum points. Young Boys are one of only two clubs, alongside Bratislava, yet to register a single point in the comPetition. With Celtic Park set to be a fortress, this Game represents a massive opportunity to take a step closer to qualification. A win here could lift Celtic to the magic 10-point mark, depending on results elsewhere.

Aston Villa (Away)

The final hurdle will be a trip to Villa Park to face a strong Aston Villa side currently sitting in 9th place on 10 points. Unai Emery’s team has been one of the most consistent performers in the tournament. Villa and Celtic COULD already be through by then, which could play into Celtic’s hands, but relying on that scenario is a gamble Rodgers will want to avoid.

How It Stands

With Dinamo Zagreb breathing down their necks and Aston Villa looking like a formidable final opponent, Celtic’s fate could hinge on making Celtic Park count against Young Boys. A point in Croatia would ease the pressure, but a loss would make the Villa Game a potentially do-or-die encounter.

The margin for error is slim, but with their destiny still in their own hands, Celtic will back themselves to navigate the pressure and reach the knockouts for the first time since 2013. Can they hit that all-important 10-point mark?