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Celtic vs FC Kairat Preview
- Aug 20, 2025
- 2 min read
European nights at Parkhead are special, and tonight Celtic welcome Kairat Almaty in the first leg of their Champions League playoff. Rodgers’ side know the importance of taking a strong lead before the long trip east.
Key Talking Points
Squad Selection – New signing Hayato Inamura is absent from the European squad, putting pressure on Rodgers to rely on experienced regulars at the back. Will Brendan start out of form Adam Idah through the middle? Or move star man Maeda off the left into the middle and bring veteran James Forrest into the side?
Star Man – Daizen Maeda’s pace and relentless pressing could be decisive against a deep-lying Kairat defence.
Form Check – Celtic are unbeaten so far this season, scoring freely and controlling matches with authority.
Opposition Analysis - Kairat come into the game on great form, having won four of their last six matches. However, they have lost their last two. Celtic will have to be wary of Kairat as they have shown already, they are no mugs. Be patient, break down the low block and be wary of counters at the back.
Predicted Line-Up
Fan Opinion
Our midfield is undoubtedly our strongest area. Callum McGregor is a nailed-on starter, but Brendan Rodgers has options as to who plays beside him. Reo Hatate and Benjamin Nygren have mostly started the season and played well, but Luke McCowan's late goal grabbed the 3 points on flag day. Arne Engels has been somewhat of a forgotten man, but was excellent against Falkirk on Friday evening.
Who should Rodgers start with in midfield?
Who should start in Midfield for Celtic?
Reo Hatate
Arne Engels
Benjamin Nygren
Luke McCowan
You can vote for more than one answer.
Prediction
With Paradise behind them and confidence running high, the Bhoys should have enough quality to secure a comfortable first-leg win.
Paradise Pulse Prediction: Celtic 3–0 Kairat
Under the lights at Celtic Park, expect noise, energy, and a team determined to take a giant step towards the group stage. The road to Europe begins tonight. Come on Celtic!
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