Celtic defeat ‘impossible’ claims bullish Bayern ace as Vincent Kompany confirms triple injury boost
Bayern Munich defender Raphael Guerrerio expects a ‘difficult’ challenge from Celtic in the Champions League last 16 playoffs on Wednesday.
The German giants arrive at Celtic Park in high spirits after a comfortable 3-0 win against Werder Bremen at the Allianz Arena on Friday, which sent them seven points clear at the top of the Bundesliga. The full-back cautioned his colleagues not to underestimate Celtic, stating that even if they were the favourites, they needed to perform well to win.
“I know the people regard us as favourites,” Guerrero stated. “That’s normal, but the reality is that both Bayern and Celtic have a 50-50 chance of progressing. The statistics and history of the tournament will not determine the outcome; that is not football. Playing the second match in Munich gives us a slight advantage. However, our challenge is to achieve a favourable score in Glasgow.
“We’ve seen Celtic, and they have a fantastic team. They deserve to be one of the greatest teams in the Champions League. A Scottish rivalry is always difficult, and the atmosphere at Celtic’s stadium is electric. However, this appeals to us.
“This is the Champions League for real, and Bayern believes it is impossible to fail. This group feels we will at least make the quarterfinals, but we must focus on this phase right now. Celtic have a strong squad and have the same goal: to win. It will not be easy for us, but we are ready for these two matches.”
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich head coach Vincent Kompany wants his team to enjoy the’special’ Celtic Park atmosphere, as he expressed his personal excitement for Wednesday’s visit, his first since playing there as a teenager with Anderlecht. The ex-Manchester City hero claimed that three of his important players are in contention to return for the game, while sources indicate that he will be missing summer addition Joao Palhinha, who is not expected to travel to Scotland.
“Celtic Park, in my experience, it was one of the loudest stadiums I ever played in,” he said. We can enjoy the atmosphere. There was a lot of discussion about the two additional games added to the schedule, but everyone is now looking forward to them. These games offer a unique opportunity to experience something remarkable.It will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience for both us and the fans. There was a lot of discussion about the two more games added to the schedule, but now everyone is looking forward to it. It will be an incredible Champions League night. We will also have numerous players back next week. Serge Gnabry, Hiroki Itō, and possibly even Alphonso Davies.”
