Brendan Rodgers has sent a clear message to Kairat ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League qualifying second leg, insisting the Kazakh side will face a different Celtic from the one they held to a 0-0 draw at Celtic Park.
Speaking after a much-improved second-half display in the 3-0 win over Livingston, the Celtic boss backed his players to rise to the occasion in Almaty.
The result eased some of the pressure building after a frustrating first leg and gave Rodgers reason to talk with confidence.
Celtic looked sharper, more aggressive, and finally found their finishing touch, something badly lacking last Tuesday night. Rodgers admitted the European challenge will be tough but made it clear the squad is fully focused on getting the job done.
With a place in the Champions League proper on the line, the Irishman said the tie is now a straight shoot-out, and his side are ready to meet the moment.
He said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “I don’t think there’s any doubt about that.
“I’ve had games that went for us and some that haven’t. But it’s winner takes all now. And everything is there for us to do it.
“They’re a good side, well-organised, and it’s always tough in European football to go away.
“But we know we need the result. And we’re going to give absolutely everything to get the result and be at the top table of European football.”
Rodgers’ comments reflect a shift in tone from last Wednesday. While the first leg showed signs of frustration, the message now is one of belief and determination. The weekend’s performance has given Celtic something to build on, and Rodgers believes the real Celtic will show up in Kazakhstan.
He acknowledged the strength and structure of Kairat but was keen to remind everyone of what his team are capable of when they play with intensity and purpose. With European stakes high, he wants nothing left behind.
Celtic have reached the Champions League in each of the last three seasons, and Rodgers is determined to make it four. He made no attempt to play down the importance of the occasion and called for a performance worthy of the club’s ambitions.
Tuesday night is make-or-break. And by the sound of it, Rodgers is convinced Celtic are ready for the fight.
