The draw sets up the possibility of a gruelling trip to Kazakhstan should Kairat come through their tie against the Slovak champions.
The Hoops have been here before. Their last competitive journey to Kazakhstan came in the 2017/18 campaign, when Brendan Rodgers’ side dismantled FC Astana over two legs, winning 8-4 on aggregate despite a 4-3 defeat in the second leg, having trailed 4-1 at one stage in that game in Kazakhstan.
That trip was remembered for its punishing travel schedule, extreme heat, and difficult playing surface, factors that could be on the agenda again if Kairat progress.
Kairat, based in Almaty, have developed a reputation for being stubborn opponents on their own patch, helped by the long-haul journey from Glasgow and a climate very different to home. Celtic will be wary of the logistical and physical demands, especially with the play-off tie coming at a crucial stage in the season.
If Slovan Bratislava advance, Celtic’s away leg would be a far shorter and more straightforward journey, but the Slovaks bring their own challenges, having been regulars in European competition over recent years.
Brendan Rodgers will be relieved that the first leg is in Glasgow, allowing his side to set the tone in front of a full house at Parkhead.
The scheduling adds another layer of difficulty, with Celtic due to face Rangers in the league just days after the second leg. If Kairat are the opponents, that could mean returning from Kazakhstan with minimal recovery time before one of the season’s most high-pressure fixtures.
Managing travel fatigue, player rotation, and tactical preparation for both matches will be a major test for Rodgers and his squad.
Celtic will be looking to take a strong advantage into the away leg, regardless of the opponent, knowing that a place in the Champions League league phase, and all the financial and footballing rewards it brings, is now just one step away.
