Celtic head to Bavaria with the odds stacked against them as they look to overturn a 2-1 deficit against Bayern Munich in the Champions League knockout play-off second leg.

The Hoops gave a strong account of themselves in the first leg at Celtic Park, particularly in the final 20 minutes, when Daizen Maeda’s header sparked a late surge that almost yielded an equaliser.

However, Brendan Rodgers knows that anything less than a monumental performance will see his side fall short against a Bayern team that has been formidable at home.

Only Bayer Leverkusen – the current Bundesliga champions – have left Munich with a win this season, a statistic that highlights the scale of Celtic’s task.

But Rodgers remains optimistic and will need to get his starting XI spot-on if Celtic are to stand any chance of progressing.

Kasper Schmeichel will once again start between the posts for Celtic.

The veteran goalkeeper was beaten twice in Glasgow but also made crucial saves, particularly in the first half, when Bayern were applying heavy pressure.

The Dane’s vast experience at this level will be invaluable, as Celtic will undoubtedly spend long spells without the ball.

The centre-back pairing of Auston Trusty and Cameron Carter-Vickers has been one of Celtic’s strongest features in recent months.

Both American defenders have shown resilience, pace, and composure throughout the European campaign. Rodgers won’t break up that partnership for this clash.

At right-back, Alistair Johnston is expected to return to the starting XI after Anthony Ralston deputised at the weekend.

The biggest defensive decision comes at left-back.

Jeffrey Schlupp impressed in that position during the weekend’s Scottish Cup win. His physicality, energy, and experience were clear to see, and his versatility could give Rodgers more tactical flexibility.

However, Greg Taylor is naturally more defensively minded and knows the system better. Rodgers must decide if Schlupp’s attacking threat is worth the defensive risk against Bayern’s lethal wide players.

I think he could go with the tried and tested option of Taylor.

Callum McGregor remains the heartbeat of Celtic’s midfield.

The captain’s ability to control the tempo and offer protection to the backline will be crucial.

Beside him, Arne Engels should get the nod after an impressive showing in the first leg.

The Belgian midfielder showed his composure and tactical intelligence against Bayern’s midfield and also won the penalty that wasn’t given after a controversial VAR decision.

Luke McCowan started in at the weekend but will drop to the bench, with Reo Hatate likely to operate in a more advanced role.

Up front, Adam Idah is expected to lead the line, as he did last week.

He offers a physical presence, which Celtic may need when they’re forced to go long under Bayern’s high press.

On the right wing, Nicolas Kuhn is likely to keep his place, while Daizen Maeda – who scored Celtic’s goal last week – will start on the left flank.

Maeda’s relentless work rate will be vital both in attack and tracking back to help nullify Bayern’s wide threat.

That leaves Jota as an impact option from the bench.

Predicted Celtic XI 

• Kasper Schmeichel
• Alistair Johnston
• Cameron Carter-Vickers
• Auston Trusty
• Greg Taylor
• Callum McGregor
•  Arne Engels
• Reo Hatate
• Nicolas Kuhn
• Adam Idah
• Daizen Maeda