Match Overview: Bayern Munich vs Celtic
Celtic will aim to overturn a 2-1 deficit when they visit Bayern Munich for the second leg of their Champions League knockout playoff tie on Tuesday at 8 PM. The Scottish side has a challenging task ahead, having lost their first home match since December 2023 and ending an impressive 32-game unbeaten run. Despite the setback, Celtic showed resilience and determination, particularly in the closing stages of the first leg, and they will be hoping to carry that momentum into the crucial away match at the Allianz Arena.
Predicted Lineups: Bayern Munich vs Celtic
Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer
- Defenders: Marcel Sabitzer (Laimer), Dayot Upamecano, Benjamin Pavard, Raphaël Guerreiro
- Midfielders: Joshua Kimmich, Kristijan Pavlović
- Forwards: Michael Olise, Jamal Musiala, Leroy Sané
- Striker: Harry Kane
Celtic (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: Joe Hart
- Defenders: Callum McGregor (Johnston), Cameron Carter-Vickers, Calvin Ramsey (Trusty), Anthony Ralston (Taylor)
- Midfielders: Tom Rogić (McGregor), Hatate, Shane Duffy (Engels)
- Forwards: Daizen Maeda, Jota, Adam Idah
First Leg Recap
The first leg at Celtic Park saw a rollercoaster of emotions. Bayern Munich took control of the match with a well-timed goal from Michael Olise just seconds before halftime, an unstoppable near-post strike that broke Celtic’s strong resistance. Harry Kane then capitalized on a moment of defensive lapse to volley in unmarked at the back post four minutes after the restart, putting his side in a commanding position.
However, Celtic refused to yield. Daizen Maeda, the Japanese forward, provided a lifeline 11 minutes from time with a scrappy goal following a corner, reviving Celtic’s hopes. Despite their best efforts, Celtic could not find an equalizer, marking their first home defeat in a long time. The match ended with a 2-1 loss, leaving Celtic with a daunting task in Munich.
Celtic’s Challenge
Celtic head coach Brendan Rodgers remained optimistic after the first leg. "The last 25 minutes, we started to press the game and were more active at the top end of the pitch. You could see the aggression in our play. Our football came alive, and we got the goal," he told TNT Sports. "At 2-1, Bayern Munich are hanging on. That’s the takeaway for us— we have one more shot."
Nonetheless, history is not on Celtic’s side. Bayern Munich have won their last five home European matches against Scottish teams and have never lost at home to a Scottish club (W7, D3). Celtic have also struggled with comebacks in major European knockout ties, having been eliminated in their last nine such scenarios. Their last successful comeback occurred against 1. FC Köln in the 1992-93 UEFA Cup, where they lost 0-2 in the first leg and won 3-0 in the second. They have never advanced after losing the first leg at home, a situation they have faced seven times previously.
Team News: Bayern Munich
For Bayern Munich, there are a few notable updates in the team’s health and form. Hiroki Ito, a summer signing who has been out since July 28 due to a broken metatarsal, made his debut as a late substitute in Glasgow and started against German champions Bayer Leverkusen on Saturday. João Palhinha has missed the last three games due to illness, and Alphonso Davies has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since January 22. Daniel Peretz has been unavailable since January 8 due to a kidney issue.
On a positive note, Bayern announced that Jamal Musiala has signed a contract extension until 2030, while Manuel Neuer (2026) and Alphonso Davies (2030) have also agreed to new deals. These extensions underscore the club’s commitment to maintaining a strong core, which will be crucial for navigating the rigorous Champions League campaign.
Team News: Celtic
Celtic will face the challenge with some key players on the sidelines. Paulo Bernardo is expected to be sidelined for up to five weeks due to an ankle injury sustained on February 8th. However, there is a silver lining as James Forrest has returned to training after being out since the League Cup final because of a foot injury. His potential return could provide a much-needed boost to Celtic’s attacking options as they look to overturn the deficit in Munich.
Conclusion
The second leg of the Champions League knockout playoff tie between Bayern Munich and Celtic is set to be a high-stakes affair. Bayern Munich, with their formidable home record against Scottish teams, will be favorites to advance. However, Celtic’s fighting spirit and recent resurgence in form give them a glimmer of hope. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams looking to secure their place in the round of 16, where the winners will face either Bayer Leverkusen or Atletico Madrid.
