Brendan Rodgers has urged his Celtic side to seize the opportunity to create history on Wednesday night as they edge closer to the Champions League playoffs. A win under the lights at Celtic Park against Young Boys could all but secure a spot in the last 16—a feat the Hoops haven’t achieved in over a generation.
Speaking ahead of the crucial clash, Rodgers shared his excitement for the occasion and highlighted what this milestone would mean for the club. “It feels a long time since we’ve played our Champions League game at Celtic Park. These games are electric—they’re such a great atmosphere. And obviously, with so much at stake, it should make for a great occasion,” Rodgers told Celtic YouTube.
The Celtic boss has consistently made it clear that improving the club’s standing in Europe was one of his top priorities when he returned to the Parkhead dugout. With the chance to move closer to the knockout stages, Rodgers reflected on the progress made and the importance of sustained success at this level.
“If we can get through and into the playoffs, then it’s been a generation, really, since we’ve been able to do that as a club,” Rodgers remarked. “But more importantly for me, in terms of the performances as well as the results, some of our performance levels in the Champions League have really shown that we belong there.”
The last time Celtic reached the knockout stages was in the 2012/13 season under Neil Lennon, a campaign highlighted by a memorable group stage win over Barcelona. For Rodgers, this week represents more than just history; it’s about reaffirming Celtic’s place on Europe’s grandest stage.
“The whole idea was to try and sustain it over a period of time,” Rodgers explained. “But certainly, in this time, we have a great opportunity now to make those playoffs.”
With a packed Celtic Park set to back the Bhoys in full voice, the manager will be hoping his team can rise to the occasion. The stage is set for a special night, one that could not only deliver a vital result but also mark a turning point in Celtic’s modern European journey.
Fans will be counting down the hours to kick-off, as Rodgers looks to guide the Hoops to a significant step forward on their Champions League adventure.
