Celtic Prepare Crucial Champions League Play-Off in Kazakhstan

Celtic faces a crucial Champions League play-off second leg against Kairat Almaty in Kazakhstan, with a £40 million prize at stake and a chance to qualify for a record fourth consecutive year. After a goalless first leg, the Scottish champions traveled over 7,000 miles, enduring long flights and adjusting to the heat of Almaty, where the match will kick off late to avoid the daytime heat. Defender Anthony Ralston expressed confidence that Celtic deserve to be among Europe's elite and can make history by winning on Kazakh soil for the first time. Manager Brendan Rodgers emphasized the team's focus on winning and qualifying, making tactical changes and resting key players in preparation for the tough away fixture. Despite some criticism of the club's recruitment and a somewhat sluggish first-half performance against Livingston in their domestic league, Celtic showed resilience and quality in the second half to maintain their perfect domestic start. The team and management remain optimistic about their chances to secure their place in the Champions League group stage and continue their progress in European football.