Celtic’s potential opponents in the Champions League play-off round are becoming clearer following the latest developments in the second qualifying round. Notably, Danish side AGF Aarhus staged a remarkable comeback against Lech Poznan, securing a place in the next round and adding to the list of teams Celtic might face.
The Scottish champions were already aware that Viking Stavanger from Norway and Austria’s LASK had automatically qualified and will be on the unseeded side of the draw. However, three other contenders will be determined after the upcoming matches on 4 and 5 August, with the second legs scheduled for 11 August.
AGF Aarhus Pull Off Stunning Comeback
AGF Aarhus, having trailed 4-1 from their first leg against Polish champions Lech Poznan, produced a sensational performance to equalise on aggregate, scoring three times in just 90 minutes and forcing extra time. Although Lech initially struck first in the extra period, the Danes responded to send the match to penalties, where AGF emerged victorious. Their next challenge will be against Azerbaijani champions Sabah, who advanced with an aggregate win over Finnish side KuPS.
Celtic’s Potential Opponents Formed
Celtic are also likely to encounter either Kairat Almaty from Kazakhstan or Bulgaria’s Levski Sofia. Levski advanced after overcoming Universitatea Craiova in a tight aggregate contest, while Kairat defeated Omonia Nicosia in a penalty shoot-out after levelling the tie with a home victory.
Slovenian and Armenian Teams in the Mix
Among the remaining potential opponents, Celje of Slovenia secured their place by overcoming Egnatia Rrogozhinë through penalties after finishing with a 5-5 aggregate score. They could face Aarat-Armenia, who progressed with a 3-2 aggregate win despite a defeat in their second leg against Shamrock Rovers.
The SportiveNews view
As the draw approaches, Celtic will be keen to monitor the outcomes of these ties. Each potential opponent presents distinct challenges, and how Celtic navigates these fixtures will be crucial for their progression in the competition. The added excitement of facing teams like AGF or Levski gives Celtic a variety of stylistic tests on the road to the group stages.
Frequently asked questions
Who are Celtic’s confirmed potential opponents?
Celtic is confirmed to face Viking Stavanger and LASK, who have both automatically qualified for the play-off round. Additionally, sides like AGF Aarhus, Kairat Almaty, Levski Sofia, Celje, and Aarat-Armenia are among the potential challengers.
How did AGF Aarhus qualify for the next round?
AGF Aarhus qualified for the next round after executing a remarkable comeback against Lech Poznan. Trailing 4-1 from the first leg, they scored three goals to level the tie, then won on penalties after extra time.
When are the next matches in the qualifying rounds?
The remaining qualifying matches will take place with first legs on 4 and 5 August, followed by second legs on 11 August. These matches will determine additional opponents for Celtic in the play-off round.
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