Celtic face Kairat Almaty in the Champions League play-off second leg on Tuesday night, with Brendan Rodgers’ side needing a victory after a 0-0 draw at Celtic Park. The Hoops must deliver in the sweltering Almaty heat if they are to keep their Champions League dream alive.
Kick-off Time & How to Watch
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Date: Tuesday, August 26
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Venue: Ortalyq Stadion, Almaty
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Kick-off: 17:45 BST / 22:45 local time (Almaty)
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TV Channel: Amazon Prime Video (UK & Ireland)
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Live Stream: Available via the Amazon Prime app and website
Celtic Team News
It’s a must-win in Central Asia, and Brendan Rodgers is expected to go with his strongest available XI.
There was a welcome sight as Adam Idah travelled with the squad, and the Irish striker could feature from the start after Celtic failed to convert chances in the first leg.
However, Auston Trusty hasn’t made the trip due to a heel issue, and Alistair Johnston is now facing three months on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.
Rodgers has made it clear the long-distance journey won’t be used as a get-out clause.
“There’s no excuse for us. Especially when you see how well Kairat worked last week. They had the same journey going the other way… We’ll prepare, and there’ll be no excuse.”
Celtic Fans inside Ortalyq Stadion Info
| ❌ Don’t | Details |
|---|---|
| Bring large bags | No bags bigger than A4 size will be allowed through security. |
| Forget your ID | Photo ID is required at entry – no ID means no entry. |
| Carry power banks | Portable chargers are banned inside the stadium. |
| Bring vapes | All e-cigarettes and vapes are prohibited. |
| Expect alcohol | No alcohol will be sold or allowed inside the ground. |
| Rush to leave | Supporters will be held back for 15 minutes after full time before being allowed to exit. |
Kairat Almaty Team News
Kairat will be without four key players for Tuesday’s clash.
First-choice goalkeeper Aleksandr Zarutsky hasn’t recovered from the leg injury that saw him subbed off in Glasgow, with back-up Temirlan Anarbekov expected to start.
Rising star Dastan Satpayev, due to join Chelsea next summer, is suspended after picking up too many yellow cards.
Luis Mata and Giorgi Zaria are also out through injury, leaving the hosts short of depth.
Tuesday Update:
Kairat Almaty have been dealt a fresh setback just hours before their Champions League play-off second leg against Celtic, with winger Edmilson Filho ruled out through injury.
Kairat were organised and disciplined at Celtic Park, but they’ll need to go again without several of their usual starters.
CONFIRMED CELTIC STARTING XI
