Celtic look to take control their second leg clash with a 2-0 goal advantage this week when they take on AZ Alkmaar. The match schedules for Thursday for the second round tie of the Europa League qualifiers at the AFAS Stadion with kickoff at 9:15 pm.
Both sides enter into the clash after contrasting domestic campaign fortunes. Celtic come off an impressive 6-0 win over St. Mirren whereas AZ Alkmaar postponed their match with Fortuna Sittard.
First, AZ opened their 2021-22 league season with a 1-0 defeat to RKC Waalwijk and the team nearly drew first blood had it not been for Joe Hart’s outstretched boot.
In addition, the camp who was seen as the underdog in Celtic Park last week, now has to find a way to win at home. They are 0-2 and have been goalless since their first two matches of this season.
While Furuhashi’s enjoyable start to life in Celtic colors has now been overshadowed by instances of racist abuse. Also, he is still enjoying football and continues playing well for the Bhoys.
Postecoglou has done a lot for Celtic in the last few years. He faced many challenges and was not confident early on, but he is now overseeing six successive victories with his side firmly set to wrestle away the Premiership crown from Rangers’ hands. Moreover, they dazzle and delight their fans with attacking play.
Az Alkmaar vs Celtic Head to Head
Both sides have one match against each other with Celtic taking the win while hosts without one. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Celtic 2-0 Az Alkmaar
- RKC Waalwijk 1-0 AZ Alkmaar
- AZ Alkmaar 2-1 Torino
- AZ Alkmaar 1-0 Real Sociedad
- OFI Crete 0-2 AZ Alkmaar
Away
- Celtic 6-0 St. Mirren
- Celtic 2-0 AZ Alkmaar
- Heart of Midlothian 2-3 Celtic
- Celtic 3-0 FK Jablonec
- Celtic 6-0 Dundee United
AZ Alkmaar Team News
A major boost for the home side is the return of attacker Jesper Karlsson back from suspension. However, left-back Owen Wijndal continues struggling from a groin injury and remains a major doubt.
Celtic Team News
Milkey Johnstone remains unavailable till the end of the international break. However, there are two options on the flanks in form of Abada and Furuhashi. Ryan Christie gained some minutes against St. Mirren and remains fit for selection.
Prediction and Odds
We cannot ignore the hosts poor start to the season added to overturning a two goal deficit this week.
- Celtic Win
- Goals Under 2.5
- Double Chance
