Champions League Playoff Matches: Celtic Hosts Bayern as European Giants Battle for Last 16

Another exciting night of Champions League action is upon us as the playoff round continues. Several European heavyweights face crucial first leg matches with a spot in the Round of 16 on the line.

The headline fixture sees Scottish champions Celtic welcome German giants Bayern Munich to Glasgow. Harry Kane returns to British soil as his Bayern side look to overcome their recent Champions League struggles against Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic.

Elsewhere, Feyenoord host AC Milan in a clash of two former European Cup winners, while Monaco takes on Portuguese side Benfica. Club Brugge and Atalanta kicked off the evening’s action earlier with an entertaining 1-1 draw.

Key details:

• Kickoff times: 8pm GMT
• TV coverage: TNT Sports
• Live streaming: discovery+

Celtic Boosted by Maeda’s Return

Celtic received a major boost with the news that star winger Daizen Maeda is available after having his suspension reduced. Manager Brendan Rodgers called it a “big surprise” and noted Maeda is a “pivotal player” for the Scottish side. The Japan international starts against Bayern in what could be a crucial role.

Schmeichel Back in Goal for Celtic

Veteran goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel returns to Celtic’s starting lineup after missing his first match of the season on the weekend. The former Premier League winner with Leicester had been sidelined with a back issue but is fit to face Bayern. Celtic have made several changes from their Scottish Cup win, with only three players retaining their starting spots.

Bayern Look to Overcome European Woes

While dominating domestically, Bayern Munich have struggled in Europe this season with losses to Aston Villa, Barcelona and Feyenoord. The German champions will be desperate to put in a strong performance at Celtic Park to ease the pressure. Harry Kane leads the line for Bayern as they aim to take control of the tie.

Key Battles Across Europe

In addition to Celtic vs Bayern, there are crucial matches taking place in Rotterdam and Monaco. Former European champions Feyenoord and AC Milan face off in an intriguing contest, while Monaco host Portuguese giants Benfica. With spots in the last 16 up for grabs, tension will be high across all venues tonight.