On Wednesday, August 7, starting at 19:00, CFR Cluj will receive a visit from Celtic in the first half of the Champions League qualifiers. The winner of this “double” will fight for a place in groups with Slavia Prague, the team of Romanians Nicolae Stanciu and Alexandru Baluta.
CFR Cluj started these qualifications with a defeat on the field of Astana (1-0), followed by a victory on their own ground, 4-1. In the next round, our team also overtook M. Tel Aviv, the team they defeated on their own ground 1-0 and then drew 2-2 in Israel. It is worth noting that in the first two rounds there were few goals. Most likely, Dan Petrescu will approach the game again in a defensive manner and will try not to get a goal, especially since this first game is played in Gruia.
Like his opponent, Celtic has eliminated two teams so far. Sarajevo defeated 3-1 away and 2-1 at home, and Klaju passed again with a double victory, 5-0 “at home” and 2-0 “outside”. So, N. Lennon’s lineup has not had much trouble so far, but the opponents have been clearly inferior.
Celtic comes after a categorical victory in the domestic competition with St. Johnstone (7-0) is recognized for offensive strength, but the Scottish squad faces problems when it faces a well-organized defense. This is exactly what D. Petrescu will try to do, and very likely Celtic will not take any unnecessary risks as he is just missing the tour. Therefore, there is a high chance of seeing a “closed” match, a balanced game.
PREDICTION: Both teams to score / NO @ 1,70
