“We can still qualify for the next round IF…” – Celtic fans react to the DRAW against Atalanta in the Champions League, reveals what Brendan Rodgers needs to do to QUALIFY for the Knockout Stage…

Celtic are just two wins away from potentially securing their spot in the knockout rounds of the UEFA Champions League. After an impressive 0-0 draw against Atalanta in Bergamo, Celtic now have four points from their first three games in the revamped league phase of Europe’s premier competition. This result marks a significant improvement from their last European outing, where they were humbled 7-1 by Borussia Dortmund.

The draw against Atalanta not only improved Celtic’s chances of progressing but also demonstrated a resilient and disciplined performance under manager Brendan Rodgers. For a team that has historically struggled in away fixtures in Europe, especially in the Champions League, securing a clean sheet on foreign soil is an important milestone. In fact, this was Celtic’s first away clean sheet in the competition in seven years, with the last one coming in a 3-0 win over Anderlecht in 2017 during Rodgers’ previous tenure at the club.

Celtic now find themselves in a promising position as they prepare for their next two home games, where they will face RB Leipzig and Club Brugge. These matches will be crucial for the Scottish champions if they want to maintain control of their own destiny in the competition. According to an analysis by Scotland’s Coefficient account on X (formerly Twitter), two victories from their remaining five games could be enough to secure qualification to the knockout rounds.

The draw in Bergamo also added 0.2 points to Scotland’s UEFA coefficient, further improving the country’s standing in European football. Additionally, Celtic have earned another €700,000 in prize money, bringing their total earnings in the competition so far to nearly €35 million, excluding ticket sales.

Celtic’s performance in Italy was characterized by a strong defensive display, which has not always been the club’s hallmark in European competition. Brendan Rodgers praised his side’s resolve, highlighting the contributions of key defensive players who helped secure the clean sheet. The result against Atalanta has also gone some way to vindicate Rodgers’ tactical approach, which has often been questioned in the past, particularly in Europe.

Celtic’s European journey this season has been a mixed bag. After a disappointing loss to Borussia Dortmund, the goalless draw against Atalanta has provided renewed hope for their European campaign. The Hoops now sit on four points in the group, which puts them in contention for at least a playoff spot. However, their goal will be to secure automatic qualification to the next round by finishing in one of the top spots in the league phase.

The upcoming matches against RB Leipzig and Club Brugge at Celtic Park are set to be pivotal. The home advantage could play a crucial role, as Celtic Park has long been known for its electric atmosphere on Champions League nights. If Celtic can capitalize on this advantage and secure two victories, they would find themselves in a strong position to advance to the knockout stages.

Celtic’s remaining fixtures after the home games against Leipzig and Brugge include a trip to face Dinamo Zagreb, a home match against Young Boys, and an away clash with Aston Villa to close out the group phase. While the schedule is challenging, Celtic have shown they are capable of competing with Europe’s top sides, and there is a growing belief that they can make it through to the next stage.

Securing a place in the knockout rounds of the Champions League would be a massive achievement for Celtic. The financial rewards alone are significant, but the prestige of progressing in Europe’s top competition cannot be overstated. For Brendan Rodgers, advancing to the knockout stages would also mark a personal triumph, as his European record has often been a point of criticism during his managerial career.

Celtic’s progress in Europe this season has also had a positive impact on Scotland’s UEFA coefficient, which determines the number of European spots available to Scottish clubs in future seasons. With Rangers also competing in Europe, the performances of Scotland’s top clubs are helping to raise the profile of Scottish football on the continental stage.

Looking ahead, Celtic fans will be eagerly anticipating the upcoming Champions League fixtures at Celtic Park. The team’s strong home record in Europe, coupled with the passionate support of the Celtic faithful, could provide the perfect platform for the Hoops to secure the two wins they need to advance. However, Rodgers and his team will be well aware that there is no room for complacency, and they will need to maintain the high standards they set in Bergamo if they are to achieve their European ambitions.

In conclusion, Celtic are on the brink of a major European achievement, with two crucial home games that could define their season. If they can secure victories against RB Leipzig and Club Brugge, they will be in a strong position to progress to the knockout stages of the Champions League. The result against Atalanta has provided a solid foundation, and now it’s up to Brendan Rodgers and his players to build on it and continue their European journey.