Celtic have already done the heavy lifting with that commanding 3-0 win at home and they look set to cruise into the next round without much drama. The Scottish champions have started their season in fine style, picking up four wins from four games across all competitions while scoring freely and keeping things tight at the back. LASK on the other hand are fighting an uphill battle in their second Champions League qualifier appearance in recent years and they will need something special from their home crowd to even dream of a comeback.
Team Form
Both sides come into this second leg with different levels of momentum and confidence. Celtic have been clinical in front of goal lately, banging in 13 goals and conceding just once in their opening fixtures. Their only real test came against Dundee but even that ended in a narrow victory that showed their ability to grind out results. LASK meanwhile have struggled to make an impact in Europe before and their domestic form does not suggest they can turn things around against such quality opposition.
- Celtic unbeaten in four matches with 13 goals scored
- LASK aiming for an early goal to spark belief among supporters
- Scottish side can afford to lose by two goals and still progress
Tactical Analysis
Celtic will likely sit back a little more in the away leg and focus on controlling the tempo rather than chasing more goals. Their experienced squad knows how to manage games like this and avoid unnecessary risks. LASK will push men forward early hoping the home atmosphere lifts their players but the visitors have enough quality in midfield and attack to hit on the counter when spaces open up. The Austrian side needs to score first to have any chance of unsettling the Celts.
Overall the match should see Celtic dictate proceedings for long periods while LASK chase the game. The visitors have the depth and know-how to handle pressure even if they concede an early goal.
Betting Proposal
With the three-goal cushion already in the bag the most sensible approach is to back Celtic to avoid defeat on the road. The types point to X2 at around 1.80 as the visitors are expected to stay solid and either nick a draw or win outright despite the tricky away fixture.
