Glasgow Celtic v Sporting Braga
Football : Champions League, 3rd Qualifying Round
Wednesday 4 August 2010 - Kickoff 7:45pm

Sporting Braga lead 3-0

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Glasgow Celtic

Many people are probably writing this tie off as a contest after Celtic returned from Portugal with a 3 goal deficit to overcome and without the luxury of scoring an away goals. However, confidence remains high at Celtic Park that they have a real chance of overcoming the first leg set back and move into the final playoff round of the Champions League for a 2nd consecutive year.

Celtic have continued with their preparations for the new season since the defeat in Portugal as they participated in the Emirates Cup over the weekend. Neil Lennon has made a lot of investment in the squad during the Summer and will look to see if they can make use of their famous home crowd in this game.

Celtic have only won 1 of their last 5 games at home in Europe, actually losing 3 times here last season. Both of Celtic's Qualifying games for this competition saw defeats at Celtic Park last season, losing 0-1 to Dynamo Moscow and 0-2 to Arsenal.

It is likely that Gary Hooper is given his debut in this game although Aiden McGeady is missing as he looks to finalise a move to Spartak Moscow. Neil Lennon does have an otherwise full squad to choose from as he did last week.

Sporting Braga

The Portuguese side must be more than pleased to have a 3 goal advantage before this 2nd leg, especially more so as it seemed they were a little fortunate to enjoy such a lead from the first leg. They will be more than aware that there is still some work to be done here.

Braga have proved hard to play in recent European games away from home, but the number of changes they had to make to the playing squad over the Summer may leave them susceptible here. The side lost to Elfsborg in both legs last season. However, that is only 1 of 3 defeats in their last 10 away European games.

There is not much I could find regarding the team news for Braga in this game, but the manager should have no worries in motivating his side after seeing the quotes coming from Celtic players regarding this game.

Prediction

Celtic still seem remarkably confident in their ability to not just win this game, but win the tie and move forward in this competition.

Home crowd is going to be important for Celtic, but this has not had the same impact in the last season as it has previously when they have beaten the likes of Milan and Manchester United here.

The side is also confident in their abilities after performances against Lyon and Arsenal at the weekend although there will be some serious concern with the defence.

Sporting Braga are unlikely to twist straight away even though they know a goal could finish the tie once and for all. It will be interesting to see how they cope with the pressure and how they handle an early goal if they do indeed concede.

The Portuguese side does not have an overwhelming experience of European football and this could be a fiery test if the Celtic faithful turn up to support their Bhoys.

I have a feeling that Celtic can win this leg although I am unsure if they can win the tie overall. I am not convinced the side can keep Braga out judging by recent defensive performances but the odds look about right for me to have a shot on a Celtic home win.

The Pick :

Glasgow Celtic 2-1 Sporting Braga

FIXED ODDS BETTING :

Take Glasgow Celtic WIN