Tuesday 26/08/2014, 20:45, Champions League Qualifiers, Celtic vs Maribor
Celtic vs Maribor Preview
Celtic got terribly lucky two weeks ago when they advanced to the next stage of the Champions League Qualifiers, despite losing both legs with Legia Warsaw. The Polish side used a suspended player and as a result lost by three goals to none, which made it possible for the Scots the reach the playoffs' phase. They avoided defeat on the road in Slovenia and will try to wrap things up against Maribor in Glasgow.
Celtic vs Maribor Odds
At Bet365
Celtic 1.50, Draw 4.00, Maribor 7.00
Celtic vs Maribor Tips
Celtic looked like the more determined team in the first leg and came out firing on all cylinders, which led to an early goal scored by McGregor. Unfortunately for them, they quickly gave up the initiative and the hosts leveled the score a few minutes later, with nothing relevant happening in the remaining 80 min.
The Scottish side had better ball possession but that wasn't converted into more offensive plays and overall both teams sent just as many shots wide and on the goal. Celtic might be one of the weekest traveling teams in European competitions, but at home they are a force to be reckoned with and tonight they won't settle for a scoreless draw.
Manager Deila is under a lot of pressure after losing this weekend against Iverness in a match where he gave the reserves a chance to shine. Celtic will return to its standard starting formation with McGregor and Stokes upfront, while Kayal will be probably kept on the bench in the first half.
Maribor lost a single match in the last 10 rounds and this includes two Champions League Qualifiers, ending both legs on the road in draws. They need to score at least once in Glasgow to advance to the next stage, but they won't push for a goal, waiting instead for an opportunity to present itself. Tavarez and Ibraimi will be the two strikers on the pitch, with the Brazilian spearheading the offensive.
Key Facts
- Maribor has a potent midfield, with most of the goals scored in Champions League Qualifiers being authored by midfielders.
- Celtic lost five of the last eight games and both victories were against subpar opponents from the Scottish championship.
Celtic vs Maribor Prediction
There is very little value in backing Celtic to win tonight and even fewer reasons to trust the hosts after their rather disappointing streak. Maribor made it this far, playing mostly defensive football and they are expected to use the same strategy tonight, which makes the 0:1 Asian handicap bet a worthy option. If Celtic wins by exactly one goal, punters will have their wagers fully refunded, while taking the profits if the visitors win or draw.
Bet: Maribor +1 goals @ 1.90 with Bet365
