Celtic Faces Major Challenge Against Borussia Dortmund in Champions League

As Celtic heads into a critical Champions League fixture against Borussia Dortmund, the Scottish team is set to face significant challenges. The match on Tuesday, October 1, at 20:00 BST will occur at Dortmund’s famed Signal Iduna Park, with coverage on BBC Radio Scotland and text updates available on the BBC Sport website and app.

Celtic, having navigated relatively easier matches this season, is preparing for what their manager, Brendan Rodgers, calls the “acid test.” Dortmund, although struggling recently with defensive inconsistencies, remains a formidable opponent. Last season, Dortmund finished fifth in the Bundesliga and made it to the Champions League final, highlighting their competitive edge.

Despite losing key players such as Mats Hummels, Jadon Sancho, and Niclas Fullkrug, Dortmund retains its reputation for danger, particularly when inspired. Recent results include conceding two goals in a 4-2 victory against Bochum and suffering a 5-1 defeat to Stuttgart, putting their defense under scrutiny.

Celtic’s attacking trio, Daizen Maeda, Kyogo Furuhashi, and Nicolas Kuhn, have proved effective with 14 goals and 12 assists combined. However, Celtic’s success in Dortmund will depend on their resilience—an area where they have historically faltered on such grand stages. The absence of key defender Cameron Carter-Vickers adds to the pressure on their defensive line.

This match offers Brendan Rodgers a chance to secure a landmark victory, which has so far eluded him in his tenure as Celtic manager, with no major win in 20 Champions League games. A victory against Dortmund could redefine Celtic’s status in European football, shifting focus from the vibrant atmosphere at their home stadium to their on-field prowess.

The evening promises a test not just of Celtic’s skill but their endurance and resilience, especially against Dortmund’s dynamic players like Karim Adeyemi and Serhou Guirassy, who have shown promising recent form.