“The purpose of the squad investment is not to defeat Borussia Dortmund at their place of residence.” Brendan Rodgers gave clear reason why they can still win the UEFA Champions League

Celtic have exhibited both their strengths and weaknesses in their initial two Champions League matches against Slovan Bratislava and Borussia Dortmund.

Despite the events of midweek, the Bhoys are currently 20th in the league phase table with three points, surpassing Atletico Madrid, RB Leipzig, and AC Milan. Therefore, the situation is not entirely bleak.

Nevertheless, Celtic’s humiliation in Dortmund on matchday two will be a source of pain. The disappointment was not caused by the loss of the game; it was caused by the margin of defeat.

The Bhoys’ Champions League projections indicate that they have a 69% chance of advancing to the elimination playoff round if they can secure nine points, if they adopt a more optimistic perspective.

Celtic may only require two additional victories after defeating Slovan Bratislava in their inaugural match. Brendan Rodgers’ team would likely extend their tenure in Europe’s primary competition beyond 2025 if they achieve anything beyond the nine goals they have set aside.

It is undeniable that there is a sense of obligation to enhance one’s performance following a disastrous evening in Germany. Nevertheless, there is still a significant amount of optimism to be found in a league phase structure that is relatively open.

Celtic has been informed that they are “miles ahead” of last season.

According to former Celtic striker Cillian Sheridan, his team is “miles ahead” of schedule this season in both the domestic and Champions League leagues, as they have already secured three points against Slovan Bratislava, as he stated in an interview with the Scottish Football Podcast.

“Yeah, I think after two games, if you told them they’re going to have three points, after those two fixtures, you’re like, yeah, we’re on track, that’s where we plan to be,” he explained.

“The purpose of the squad investment is not to defeat Dortmund at a distance; rather, it is to defeat Slovan Bratislava at home and likely the remainder of their home games.” Brendan Rodgers has already stated that he will not alter his approach to Atalanta, which will be another challenging match.

“I do not believe that he should; if he supports it, he will support it.” Again, I believe that the scoreline is the sole factor. While it is undoubtedly disheartening for all parties involved, it is important to consider that they are significantly ahead of where they were last season in the greater scheme of things.

“Yes, it is not entirely bleak; therefore, when it is embarrassing, it could have occurred at a more inopportune moment.” I anticipate that the squad will recover from this setback, as Brendan Rodgers has previously recovered from similar circumstances. I am eager to observe their performance.

Celtic must respond to Dortmund’s humiliation.
As the weekend approaches, it is logical to anticipate future obstacles, as the majority of Celtic supporters will be eager to divert their attention from the discourse surrounding their team’s performance in Dortmund.

The Bhoys are determined to establish a presence in the Scottish Premiership before the international break, and they will face Ross County at Sunday lunchtime.

There are numerous reasons to be optimistic about visiting the Global Energy Stadium, given that the Staggies were defeated last season and the maximum points were achieved. Since their last victory over the reigning champions in February 2021, Ross County has lost all 11 meetings with Celtic.

After the Champions League frustration against Dortmund in midweek, Don Cowie anticipates that Celtic will be “relentless.” He also anticipates that adjustments may be in the works to inject some freshness into critical positions.

The Bhoys’ obstacle is straightforward: they must accumulate three points in the Highlands prior to the international break.