Celtic vs Celta Vigo: a leaky defence meets a blunt attack

Celtic have conceded seven goals in two league-phase matches, and that is the number Celta Vigo will be looking at as they travel to Celtic Park. The Spanish side have the opposite problem: they have scored just once in two games, so this could be a tight, low-scoring contest between two teams still searching for their first real attacking rhythm.

Two sides still searching for a first point

Neither team has a point in the UEFA Europa League league phase. Celtic sit 33rd of 36 with a goal difference of -5, while Celta Vigo are 28th on -2. Both have lost their opening two matches, so Thursday’s game carries real weight. A defeat would leave either side facing a steep climb, while a first win would change the mood immediately.

Celtic’s leaky back line

Celtic’s defensive record is the headline concern. They have let in an average of 3.5 goals per game this season and have not kept a clean sheet. Their attack has offered more, with two goals in their last two outings, but those returns have not been enough to keep pace with what they have conceded.

Celta’s issue is the reverse. Their away defence has been more solid than their attack, and their one goal so far has come from a single moment rather than sustained pressure. For Celta, the question is whether they can turn a cautious approach into a result in Glasgow.

Celtic’s injury list and Celta’s absences

Celtic will be without Alistair Johnston, who is out with a leg injury, and two players, S. Mheuka and J. van den Berg, who are not in the squad. Carter-Vickers and Yang Hyun-Jun are doubtful, the former with a health issue and the latter with a hamstring problem.

Celta Vigo are missing more players. J. El Abdellaoui and M. Roman are out with knee injuries, B. Iglesias has a calf problem, A. Nunez a groin injury, and C. Starfelt a muscle problem. That is a significant list for a side already short of goals.

Our prediction

Both teams arrive with zero points and plenty of questions, but Celtic’s home ground and their greater attacking threat give them the edge. Celta’s depleted squad makes it hard to see them dominating the game, though their organisation could keep it close. A cagey match with few clear chances for either side seems likely, with Celtic just shading it.

Celtic 1-1 Celta Vigo