Valeriy Gromyko believes Kairat Almaty can upset Celtic in Kazakhstan and take a big step toward the Champions League league phase.
Celtic controlled much of the match, but Gromyko feels his side proved their quality in the second half and will offer much more at home.
The tie remains finely balanced at 0-0, and Celtic know from past experience that trips to Kazakhstan can be anything but straightforward. Brendan Rodgers’ side will need to be focused from the start, with Kairat hoping home advantage can push them over the line.
Gromyko recognises Celtic’s European pedigree, but he’s backing his side to deliver in front of a full house in Almaty.
He said: (TCW), “I know that Celtic have previously had a hard time of playing in Kazakhstan.
“So we want to show the world we can play good football too and not just defend.
“We played really well in the second half in Glasgow – we really stopped everything.
“Let’s not forget Celtic are a very good team who play in the Champions League every year.
“They are a very fast team too, but we matched them.
“But at home in front of our fans, it will be a different game.
“It is the dream of any footballer to get into the main stage of the Champions League.
“Of course, we believe in it.”
Celtic have endured difficult nights in Kazakhstan before, most notably during previous qualifiers against the likes of Astana and Shakhter Karagandy.
The conditions, time zone, and travel often play a part, but Brendan Rodgers will demand professionalism and focus in what is sure to be a hostile environment.
Kairat, meanwhile, will feel they’ve nothing to lose. Their second-half display in Glasgow has injected a sense of possibility, and Gromyko’s comments reflect a side not content with just showing up. They want to make history.
For Celtic, it’s about controlling the tempo early and shutting down any momentum from the home side. Qualification is firmly in their hands, but as Gromyko warns, the return leg will be no formality.
