Bayern Munich scored either side of halftime through Michael Olise and Harry Kane but had to endure late pressure from hosts Celtic before securing a 2-1 victory in their Champions League playoff first leg. .
Olise's stunning shot in the 45th minute put the German side in front and Kane doubled the lead with a 49t-minute volley at the far post. Celtic cut the deficit in the 79th minute thanks to Daizen Maeda's close-range header to inject late drama into the match.
Bayern defended well as Celtic poured forward and needed a fine save from keeper Manuel Neuer in stoppage time to hold on to victory ahead of Tuesday's return leg in Munich to decide a place in the round of 16.
Follow all the latest from Celtic Park in our live blog:
Celtic vs Bayern Munich LIVE
- FULL TIME! Celtic 1-2 Bayern Munich
- Harry Kane left unmarked to score as Bayern take lead back to Germany
- 79' GOAL! Maeda nods in from corner to give hosts hope [CEL 1-2 BAY]
- 48' GOAL! Kane doubles Bayern lead with volley from a corner [CEL 0-2 BAY]
- 45' GOAL! Olise opens the scoring with a superb effort [CEL 0-1 BAY]
- 1' DISALLOWED GOAL! Kuhn's low effort is ruled out as Idah is flagged offside [CEL 0-0 BAY]
Celtic FC 1 - 2 FC Bayern München
Celtic’s unforgivable error leaves them requiring a Champions League miracle
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:05 , Chris WilsonCeltic had talked up the visit of “European royalty” in Glasgow, of “hurting” Bayern Munich under the fierce lights and thunderous atmosphere of a big Champions League night at Parkhead. Then the England captain rolled into town and Celtic unfurled the red carpet, leaving Harry Kane unmarked at the back post to put Bayern Munich in control of this Champions League play-off tie. Celtic knew they likely had to take a lead to Munich to have a chance of progress, and now a miracle is required after their first Champions League knockout tie since 2013 ended in defeat.
Brendan Rodgers had been effusive in his praise of Kane and Celtic did not need to be told of the danger of the poacher with more Champions League goals than any other Englishman, least of all the goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel. Kane had put more goals past Schmeichel than any other goalkeeper and his 19th against the Dane for both club and country could not have been simpler. As Kane lurked in his trademark position at the back post, Joshua Kimmich’s inswinging cross found the striker on his own. Celtic switched off, with defenders left pointing to each other. It was unforgivable and Kane was typically clinical.
Celtic’s unforgivable error leaves them requiring a Champions League miracle
Rodgers reacts
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:31 , Chris WilsonCeltic boss Brendan Rodgers says that his “overriding feeling” was that his side were a little too passive at times.
“We still feel, without doing so much with the ball, that we were stable enough without it, but they get a little bit of luck.
“It was about us being more aggressive, so that’s our mindset. We then give away a goal.
“The one player you don’t leave unmarked is arguably the best striker in world football,” he adds regarding Kane’s goal.
“At 2-1, they’re hanging on then, so that’s what we can take from it, we’ve got one more shot. It’s a new level for a lot of the players.
“One more shot, a wonderful arena, let’s go and see where it takes us,” he says.
“We’ve shown that we can play football, we can be a threat. We’re still right in the tie.
“We’ll find confidence from that last period, and I’m looking forward to next Tuesday.”
FULL-TIME! Celtic 1-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:23 , Chris WilsonAdvantage Bayern München 👊#UCL pic.twitter.com/q1ZV1XI287
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 12, 2025
Kane reacts
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:17 , Chris WilsonHarry Kane is first to speak to TNT Sports, and he says that “whenever you win a game like this, you can always be pleased”.
He calls it a “difficult place to come”, before adding that “overall, we scored at the right time”.
“Obviously it was a shame to concede a goal but they put us under pressure at the end.
“We knew the atmosphere would give them a bit of momentum. We had to be patient, we knew we would have more of the ball, more possession.
“In the end it was a great finish from Michael [Olise], sometimes you need a bit of special quality to open a game like this up,” he adds.
FULL-TIME! Celtic 1-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:02 , Chris WilsonAn enthralling match in Glasgow ends with Bayern earning a 2-1 win and a vital lead to take to Bavaria next week.
It was a deserved win for the visitors, but Celtic will go into the second leg with some confidence after their performance tonight caused the German side problems at times.
FULL-TIME! Celtic 1-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:58 , Chris Wilson98 mins
The last seven minutes promised plenty but celtic can’t mount another meaningful attack and the referee brings the game to an end.
The visitors’ dominance paid off and they take a deserved lead to the Allianz next week.
Celtic 1-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:55 , Chris Wilson95 mins
Some great play from Hatate allows Celtic to progress possession, but Engels tries the silly backheel and Bayern have possession.
Time is running out for the hosts.
Celtic 1-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:53 , Chris Wilson94 mins
Bayern are simply trying to take the sting out of the Celtic play now, knocking the ball around in their third and midfield.
Celtic 1-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:51 , Chris Wilson92 mins
Celtic’s corners are causing plenty of problems and there’s pinball in the Bayern box again, but the visitors manage to clear.
Celtic 1-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:50 , Chris Wilson90 mins
There’ll be SEVEN minutes of added time here.
It begins with a Celtic chance, as they work it forward and Yang slips it forward to Johnston, who forces a good save from Neuer.
Celtic 1-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:47 , Chris Wilson88 mins
Celtic are still pressing for that equaliser but Bayern are showing their experience in possession, recycling it around the back and building patiently.
Celtic 1-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:45 , Chris Wilson87 mins
Another change for Bayern as Thomas Muller comes on for Musiala.
Celtic 1-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:44 , Chris Wilson85 mins
More pressure from Celtic as they swarm forward, with Schlupp having an effort blocked from just outside the box before Jota fires over from 18 yards.
Celtic 1-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:43 , Chris Wilson83 mins
Celtic are riding a wave of emotion now and they’ve created two half-chances since the goal, with Neuer narrowly missing collecting a cross before Jota narrowly misses reaching it himself.
GOAL! Celtic 1-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:40 , Chris WilsonGOAL! And Celtic are back in it!
The corner comes in and there’s some pinball in the area, with the ball coming off a Bayern shoulder before it’s knocked on at the near post by Yang and Maeda bundles in from point-blank range!
Celtic 0-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:38 , Chris Wilson79 mins
Better from Celtic as Yang and Maeda combine to win a corner...
Celtic 0-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:37 , Chris Wilson78 mins
A change for Bayern now as Guerreiro makes way for Hiroki Ito.
Celtic 0-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:35 , Chris Wilson77 mins
A change for Celtic as Kuhn makes way for Yang Hyun Jun.
Celtic 0-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:33 , Chris Wilson74 mins
CLOSE! It’s a mix-up at the back for Bayern as Guerreiro lays it back to Neuer. His pass doesn’t have enough on it though and Maeda nips in in front of the ‘keeper. However, the angle is too tight and the Celtic man can only hit his shot across the mouth of the goal.
Celtic 0-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:31 , Chris Wilson72 mins
Another good save from Schmeichel as Coman’s cross comes across goal all the way to Gnabry, and the former Arsenal man lashes a half-volley straight at the ‘keeper.
Celtic 0-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:29 , Chris Wilson70 mins
It’s somewhat scrappier at the moment from both sides, with Schlupp almost punished for losing the ball near his own box before Celtic clear.
The hosts are still lacking a little bit of quality in the final third.
Celtic 0-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:26 , Chris Wilson67 mins
Risky from Upamecano as his pass to Neuer almost doesn’t have enough on it, but the German clears before Maeda can get to it.
Celtic 0-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:25 , Chris Wilson66 mins
Much better from Celtic as Kuhn plays a great diagonal ball to Maeda, but his cross is turned away by Dier.
Celtic 0-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:24 , Chris Wilson64 mins
A double sub for Bayern as Olise and Sane come off for Serge Gnabry and Kingsley Coman.
Celtic also make changes, as Idah and Taylor come off for Jeffrey Schlupp and Jota.
Celtic 0-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:2161 mins
Bayern are playing in a slightly more relaxed manner now that they have their 2-0 lead, but it has allowed Celtic to create a couple of half-chances in the last few minutes.
NO PENALTY! Celtic 0-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:17 , Chris Wilson57 mins
When we see the replay, it’s actually a good challenge from Upamecano – just one angle makes it look like a stonewall penalty!
Upamecano wins the ball first and then steps on Engels’ foot.
After a lengthy review, the referee waves it away.
Celtic 0-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:14 , Chris Wilson54 mins
Now this could be interesting. Celtic see a chance go begging but Engels doesn't give up on it and Upamecano takes him down in the box.
Kuhn looked like he was in an offside position so nothing is made of the challenge originally, but they’re checking the challenge for a Celtic penalty.
It’s been a long check – if Engels isn't offside, the challenge could definitely warrant a spot-kick.
Celtic 0-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:11 , Chris Wilson52 mins
Celtic work their best chance of the match so far as they get forward and cut it back to Hatate near the edge of the box, but his shot is blocked for a corner.
Celtic 0-2 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:09 , Chris Wilson49 mins
GOAL! And Bayern have the early second they wanted.
The visitors win a corner and it’s swung in to the far post. It comes straight to an unmarked Kane in the six-yard box and all he has to do it watch it onto his foot as he lashes a volley past Schmeichel.
He doesn’t miss those.
Celtic 0-1 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:07 , Chris Wilson47 mins
An early chance for the visitors as Olise lays it off and Kimmich drives a decent effort at Schmeichel.
KICK-OFF! Celtic 0-1 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:04 , Chris WilsonThe hosts get the second half started in Glasgow.
Can Celtic get back into this one, or will it end up getting away from them? We’ll find out soon.
HALF-TIME! Celtic 0-1 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:02 , Chris WilsonBoth sides are coming back out onto the pitch at Celtic Park, so we’ll be back underway soon.
HALF-TIME! Celtic 0-1 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:54It was an entertaining half at Celtic Park even if there weren’t many clear-cut chances, and Celtic will feel hard done by going into the break behind.
They thought they had an early lead when Kuhn’s early effort squeezed past Neuer, but it was disallowed and the visitors dominated from there.
But Celtic had more than their fair share of half-chances, and they’ve proved they can hurt Bayern if they can just find that final bit of quality in attack.
HALF-TIME! Celtic 0-1 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:49 , Chris Wilson45 mins
No added time, and the goal is almost the last kick of the half.
The visitors go into the break with a 1-0 lead after an enthralling half in Glasgow.
So harsh on the hosts.
GOAL! Celtic 0-1 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:48 , Chris Wilson45 mins
GOAL! The visitors lead!
He makes it look so simple too, as Olise brings the ball down and cuts inside Taylor.
The ball takes a slight bobble as Olise lines up the shot and it falls perfectly, with the Frenchman firing a shot straight into the top corner at the near post. No chance for Schmeichel.
Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:44 , Chris Wilson43 mins
CLOSE! Another one for Kane, and he should score.
It’s so simple too, as Olise’s corner comes all the way to an unmarked Kane at the far post, but he’s leaning back and can only power his header into the side-netting.
Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:42 , Chris Wilson41 mins
It’s been a better few minutes for Celtic both in and out of possession, with the hosts winning the ball in promising positions and creating half-chances when they do have it.
However, it comes to an end for now as Idah leaves a ball that he thought was going for a corner, but the referee gives a goal kick.
Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:40 , Chris Wilson39 mins
Maeda runs at Laimer and ends up putting in a decent cross, but Upamecano clears.
Moments later, Celtic have a very promising counter, with the hosts 3-v-3 with the Bayern defence, but Maeda hesitates and ends up being dispossessed by Upamecano.
Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:3736 mins
Bayern win a free-kick in a dangerous position near the Celtic area.
Kimmich takes, and though it’s a good delivery, the header goes wide.
Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:34 , Chris Wilson32 mins
CLOSE! How is that not 1-0?
It would have been offside anyway, but it’s a great save from Schmeichel as Sane clips a cross to an unmarked Kane. The England man is about six yards out, but he heads straight at the ‘keeper!
31 mins
CLOSE! A great move from Bayern as Musiala squares a pass to Goretzka, who clips a lovely ball over the Celtic defence, but Sane can’t get clean contact on the shot.
Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:31 , Chris Wilson29 mins
Half a chance for Bayern as Kane lays off a brilliant pass for an overlapping Musiala, who breaks into the box but takes too heavy a touch before the ball rolls away.
Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:29 , Chris Wilson27 mins
It’s all gone to plan for Celtic so far, though they’re aware of the Bayern threat in attack.
They clearly believe they have an opportunity on the break though, especially after that disallowed goal.
The hosts are keeping their defensive structure brilliantly so far.
Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:26 , Chris Wilson24 mins
A fairly promising attack from the hosts as they get forward down the wing, with Kuhn pouncing on the long ball, but he can’t find Engles with the cutback.
Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:23 , Chris Wilson22 mins
Both sides have settled well, with Bayern dominating possession and Celtic happy to counter and try and get in behind the Bayern defence at any opportunity.
No chances since that Olise opportunity though.
Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:20 , Chris Wilson19 mins
Better from Bayern as Olise finds Laimer on the overlap and his cross isn’t far from reaching Kane in the middle.
Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:18 , Chris Wilson16 mins
68 per cent possession in the opening 15 or so for Bayern, but they only have one clear-cut chance to show for it.
Celtic showing plenty of patience so far out of possession.
Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:14 , Chris Wilson13 mins
At one end, Dier does well to dispossess Kuhn and avert the danger.
Moments later, Olise cuts inside the challenge from Trusty and forces a good save from Schmeichel at the near post.
Plenty of pace to the game so far.
Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:11 , Chris Wilson10 mins
Celtic certainly don’t look scared out there, with some good combinations in midfield eventually ending with Dier cushioning a header back to Neuer. The hosts do look like they can cause some damage though.
Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:09 , Chris Wilson7 mins
Bayern’s first foray into the Celtic box sees Olise win a corner from a cross.
From the set-piece, Celtic clear before Upamecano ends up hitting a half-volley well over.
Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:074 mins
Celtic Park absolutely erupted there, though the VAR check is quick and it’s rightly ruled out.
Both sides have started quickly so far, though Celtic have limited the visitors to very little in attack.
The hosts are playing a notably high line at the moment.
DISALLOWED GOAL! Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:03 , Chris Wilson1 min
The hosts think it’s an unbelievable start as Kuhn cuts in from the right and hits a low shot that somehow squeezes past Neuer!
But the referee raises his flag, as it looks like Idah is interfering with play and standing in Neuer’s line of sight.
KICK-OFF! Celtic 0-0 Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:01 , Chris WilsonThe away side get us underway at Celtic Park.
Celtic vs Bayern Munich LIVE
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:58 , Chris WilsonPlenty of noise around Celtic Park as the team walk out and the competition anthem plays.
Can the crowd spur the hosts to a famous result?
Celtic vs Bayern Munich LIVE
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:55 , Chris WilsonBoth teams are in the tunnel at Celtic Park, so we’re just a few minutes from kick-off in Glasgow.
Celtic vs Bayern Munich LIVE
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:50 , Chris Wilson
Match facts
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:45 , Chris WilsonBayern Munich are unbeaten in their past 13 matches against Scottish sides in major European competition (W9 D4), with their last such defeat coming against Hearts in the Uefa Cup in February 1989 (0-1).
Celtic have won just one of their 12 Champions League/European Cup clashes with German opposition (D3 L8), although that victory did come in the most recent one, against RB Leipzig in November.
Celtic's big Champions League night against Bayern Munich
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:40 , Jamie BraidwoodCeltic are playing in their first Champions League knockout tie in 12 years, with their last coming in a 3-0 defeat to Juventus in February 2013.
The Scottish champions benefited from the changes to the Champions League format and finished the league phase in 21st position – with ten of their 12 points coming at Celtic Park.
In the play-offs they face “European royalty” and a side who are as experienced at this level as anyone.
Bayern Munich are looking to reach the last 16 for a 17th successive season. They may have finished 12th on 15 points, but the six-time European champions have reached the quarter-finals or better in 12 of their last 13 Champions League campaigns.
Head-to-head
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:35 , Chris WilsonCeltic have faced Bayern Munich on four previous occasions, going winless across all four in the group stages of the Champions League (D1 L3).
The last meetings between the two sides came in the 2017/18 season, when Bayern won 3-0 at home followed by a 2-1 away win courtesy of goals from Kinglsey Coman and Javi Martinez.
Harry Kane looks to continue extraordinary scoring form for Bayern
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:30 , Jamie BraidwoodHarry Kane will be playing against Celtic for the first time in his career, having scored twice against Scotland on his previous two games in Glasgow (in a 2-2 draw in 2017 and a 3-1 win in 2023).
Kane has scored 31 in 33 games for club and country this season and since joining Bayern he has set the record for most Bundesliga goals in his first 50 games, scoring 55.
"I can't speak highly enough of him,” said Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers. “He was absolutely brilliant at Tottenham, showed the same for England and he's gone out to Bayern and you just need to look at his goals record. A fantastic player and a good guy. We know that."
Bayern's away woes in Champions League
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:15 , Jamie BraidwoodBayern’s 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa in the second matchday of this season’s Champions League ended an unbeaten run of 41 group / league games in the competition.
It was then followed by further defeats at Barcelona and Feyenoord - making it three successive European away defeats for the first time in the club’s history.
Bayern, who lost to Real Madrid in last year’s semi-finals have featured in the Champions League in every season since 2008/09, reaching the knockout rounds in each one of those seasons.
Do Celtic have reason to believe ahead of facing Bayern Munich?
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:08 , Jamie BraidwoodCeltic have already played German teams twice in this season’s Champions League - with mixed results. They were hammered 7-1 by Borussia Dortmund away from home but beat RB Leipzig 3-1 at home.
There are signs that Celtic are starting to improve in the Champions League. Although Celtic have won only six of their last 40 games in the Champions League proper, four of those wins have come in the last nine.
Celtic have never beaten Bayern in their four meetings, the last of which came in the Champions League group stages in 2017. Bayern won 3-0 at home and 2-1 at Parkhead.
Team news
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:00 , Chris WilsonBayern have made four changes to the side that beat Werder Bremen 3-0 last weekend.
In defence, Konrad Laimer comes in for Sacha Boey at right-back, while Eric Dier partners Dayot Upamecano at centre-back.
In midfield, Aleksandar Pavlović drops out in favour of Leon Goretzka, while in attack Kingsley Coman is replaced by Leroy Sane.
Team news
Wednesday 12 February 2025 18:55 , Chris WilsonCeltic have made eight changes to the side that beat Raith Rovers 5-0 at the weekend.
The entire back five is replaced, with the normal starting five of Schmeichel, Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Trusty and Taylor recalled.
In midfield, only captain Callum McGregor remains, with Reo Hatate and Arne Engels coming in for Luke McCowan and Paulo Bernardo.
In attack, Daizen Maeda is free to play after having a ban overturned, and himself and Kuhn both keep their places, with Adam Idah replacing Yang Hyun-Jun.
Line-ups
Wednesday 12 February 2025 18:50 , Chris WilsonBayern XI: Neuer; Laimer, Upamencano, Dier, Guerreiro; Kimmich, Goretzka; Olise, Musiala, Sane, Kane.
Subs: Ulreich, Urbig, Min-Jae, Gnabry, Coman, Ito, Boey, Vidovic, Muller, Buchmann, Stanisic, Pavlovic.
✨ 𝐔𝐧𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐗𝐈 𝓿𝓼. 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐜 ✨
— FC Bayern München (@FCBayern) February 12, 2025
Let’s go, #packmas, Jungs! 💪
#FCBayern #CELFCB #UCL pic.twitter.com/o2yZARzvhI
Line-ups
Wednesday 12 February 2025 18:47 , Chris WilsonCeltic XI: Schmeichel; Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Trusty, Taylor; McGregor, Engels, Hatate; Kuhn, Maeda, Idah
Subs: Sinisalo, Bain, Scales, Jota, Yang, McCowan, Schlupp, Nawrocki, Kenny, Murray, Ralston.
📋 #UCL Team News
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) February 12, 2025
Here's how we line up tonight! 🔢
#CelticBayernMunich | #CelticFC🍀 pic.twitter.com/GhvF9zwewO
Celtic vs Bayern Munich early team news
Wednesday 12 February 2025 18:43 , Chris WilsonLine-ups are expected in the next few minutes so here’s a reminder of the team news:
Daizen Maeda, who has scored six goals in his last three games, is available for the first leg after his suspension was reduced from two Champions League games to one. The Japanese forward missed Celtic’s last match following his red card against Young Boys in the league phase. James Forrest also remains out with a foot injury he picked up against Rangers in December.
For Bayern, goalkeeper Daniel Peretz remains on the sidelines while the likes of Alphonso Davies, Hiroki Ito, Joao Palhinha and Serge Gnabry are set to be assessed before the match in Scotland.
'When we play our game I back us against anyone'
Wednesday 12 February 2025 18:30 , Jamie BraidwoodCeltic defender Auston Trusty has backed his team to beat Bayern Munich if they can get their mentality right against the German giants.
"I think we are all really excited. It's a great opportunity for the club and also us individually, and it's one us as a collective have to take advantage of and play our game,” Trusty said.
"We need to go into it with the same mentality that we've had. I think it's just the Celtic way in how we approach things. From when I first walked into the door you could immediately feel how the organisation approaches the game and everything in between. So, our mentality is not changing, we are just playing our game.
"100 per cent, I back this team with everything. I think when we are on it and we play our game with the right mindset as a collective then I would truly back us against anybody. So, it's up to us."
Kompany: 'These are great opportunities to feel something very special'
Wednesday 12 February 2025 18:15 , Jamie BraidwoodVincent Kompany is expecting a “special” night of Champions League football at Celtic Park.
“Celtic have a great tradition in the Champions League. We will give them the respect they deserve, but we also have a great team. And as long as we understand how big and how important this game is, we will play well. These will be two difficult games and the important thing is that we advance.
"It's certainly going to be special for us and for the fans. Celtic Park, in my experience, was one of the loudest stadiums I ever played in. We can enjoy the atmosphere. These kind of games are special, they are great opportunities to feel something very special. I'm happy to live through these moments and it will be an amazing Champions League night."
Vincent Kompany expects 'difficult night' as a coach against Brendan Rodgers
Wednesday 12 February 2025 18:00 , Jamie BraidwoodBayern manager Vincent Kompany is looking forward to facing Brendan Rodgers on the touchline after several encounters with the former Leicester and Liverpool manager as a player in England.
“It’s a coincidence, but my last ever game at the Etihad for Man City was when Brendan was a coach [at Leicester],” Kompany said. “I remember it was a must-win game for us and we didn’t have it all our way. We had a very, very strong team.
“So already coming to the Etihad, at that time at Leicester, a team where obviously Man City would have been the favourites, they pressed us, they had possession as well, and made it difficult for us to recover the ball.
“He always, within his squad design, plays in the front line with speed and one versus one ability. He had it at Leicester, he had it at Liverpool, of course and I’m seeing the same design over here.
“But in reality it’s the players who have got to do the job tomorrow. It’s our players against his players and they’re the ones doing it on the night.”
Brendan Rodgers highlights Celtic improvement ahead of facing Bayern
Wednesday 12 February 2025 17:40 , Jamie BraidwoodCeltic boss Brendan Rogers believes his side have improved in Europe this season and are starting to take their domestic form into the Champions League.
"Bayern are one of the giants of the European game, they really are footballing royalty in terms of what they've achieved over many, many years at this level.
“So for us to be in a position to challenge them is a great marker. [What gives me confidence is] the way we mix up our game as well as our running power and physicality, which is something that we've really improved on at this level."
Celtic atmosphere can 'hurt' Bayern Munich, says Rodgers
Wednesday 12 February 2025 17:20 , Jamie BraidwoodBrendan Rodgers believes Celtic can “hurt” Bayern Munich if they can harness the power of Parkhead tonight.
"I go back to the Young Boys' game here and I thought, when it could have got a little bit nervy in the last 15 minutes, the supporters were amazing.
"They sensed it and they really got behind the team and lifted the team. So that side is very important.
"It's great. It's where I wanted to take the club back to where we come here.
"It's not just a tick-box exercise for players to come and say they've played at Celtic Park.
"You want them to hurt in this arena as well and you want them to find the challenges of that combination between the supporters and the players on the pitch, making it a really, really, really difficult night.
“And we’ve started to do that. Obviously this will be a massive test of that, but that’s what we sign up for.”
Celtic prepared to meeting with 'European royalty' in Champions League
Wednesday 12 February 2025 17:00 , Jamie BraidwoodBrendan Rodgers spoke of Bayern Munich as “European royalty” ahead of tonight’s Champions League play-off against the six-time European champions.
"Bayern Munich are one of the giants of the European game. They really are football royalty in terms of what they've achieved over many, many years at this level.
"What is important for us is that we're very much alive in the tie going over to Germany. I think that would be the key message for us.
"But we want to go and perform. We're not frightened to lose. That's not what this is about.
"This is about performing and if we can perform well, like we've shown in this competition, especially at home, hopefully we can get what we deserve.
“Our mindset looking into the game is to win the game to see if we can take an advantage across the next week.”
Brendan Rodgers 'ran the legs off Daizen Maeda' before ban overturned
Wednesday 12 February 2025 16:40 , Jamie BraidwoodBrendan Rodgers admitted he “ran the legs off” Daizen Maeda in the last three games thinking the Celtic forward would be missing tonight.
“I ran the legs off him for three games. It was brilliant by the club, I've got to say, because he was always going to serve one game, but until you get the written report - which didn't come through until Thursday/Friday last week - you can't put in your appeal.
"But as soon as it did come in, obviously the club put in the appeal. Which, with the greatest respect to UEFA, we were thinking this probably wouldn't bear fruit.
"And then when I got the call to say he was able to play, I thought, 'goodness me, he's played the three full games'.
"He couldn't run any more as a striker, as a winger. But thankfully he's just a bundle of energy, so he'll be OK. I was a wee bit surprised when it came through.”
Brendan Rodgers explains why Daizen Maeda is 'pivotal' to Celtic
Wednesday 12 February 2025 16:20 , Jamie BraidwoodBrendan Rodgers welcomed the surprise availability of top scorer Daizen Maeda as he explained why the forward is so important to Celtic.
"It's such a great bit of news that we got, obviously, last night, early evening. He's an extraordinary player.
"How he's been this year for us, not just in goals, but what his value gives to the team in terms of his pressing and his honesty to the game.
"So to have that mentality and that ability available was a big surprise for us, but a nice surprise.
"Like most footballers, they're good people. As a guy, he's super professional. He's in every day, does his work, does all the right things to prepare himself to be a top professional.
"He trains as he plays, so he's very intense and gives everything in his training and, obviously, he then takes that personality onto the field.
"So he's been an absolute joy to work with and just seeing him develop and grow over the course of the season.
"His ability, his finishing, but add to that, like I say, the work rate and intensity. He's a really, really pivotal player for us."
Celtic handed huge Daizen Maeda boost before Bayern clash
Wednesday 12 February 2025 16:00 , Jamie BraidwoodBrendan Rodgers admitted it was a "big surprise" to have the "extraordinary" Daizen Maeda available for Celtic's Champions League play-off against Bayern Munich on Wednesday night.
The Japan attacker was sent off in the 1-0 win over Young Boys last month and served the first game of his ban in the 4-2 loss away to Aston Villa.
It was thought Celtic's top scorer this season would also miss the visit of the German giants but his two-match suspension was reduced to one after an appeal, with the news emerging on Monday.
Maeda has scored six goals in his last three games - and 22 in total for club and country this season.
Brendan Rodgers hails 'world class' Harry Kane ahead of tie
Wednesday 12 February 2025 15:40 , Harry Latham-CoyleBrendan Rodgers expressed his long-term admiration of "world class" Harry Kane ahead of the Bayern Munich striker's visit to Celtic Park.
The England captain will lead the line for the German giants in the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off at Parkhead tonight.
"Oh, he's absolutely brilliant," said the Celtic boss. "Obviously, I've known Harry for a long time and come across him many times.
"Harry's actually one of those ones that until you're stood on the side of the pitch and you face him, you actually only then really, really see his level.
"I know as a young player he came through the system at Tottenham. It wasn't easy for him at the beginning. He had lots of loans getting out to clubs and didn't quite work out.
"And then he was given the opportunity by Tim Sherwood at Tottenham. Tim had belief in him and had worked with him as a young player. Once he got into the team his development just improved from that. And you look at him now, he's a world-class player.”
"I can't speak highly enough of him. He was absolutely brilliant at Tottenham, showed the same for England and he's gone out to Bayern and you just need to look at his goals record. A fantastic player and a good guy. We know that."
Vincent Kompany explains key Celtic quality Bayern Munich must be wary of
Wednesday 12 February 2025 15:20 , Harry Latham-CoyleVincent Kompany has cautioned that Bayern Munich must be wary of Celtic's winning mentality ahead of tonight’s Champions League play-off first leg in Glasgow.
The Bavarians, who lead the Bundesliga title race, failed to earn automatic qualification to the round of 16, setting up a two-legged playoff with the Scottish Premiership leaders.
While Bayern are clear favourites to progress, Kompany said Celtic's domestic dominance ensured they would not be pushovers.
"We play against a team that is used to winning, to always go forward," Kompany said. "The five players they deploy up front are used to scoring.
"This confidence is something you also take into big games. Maybe you defend less deep in your own league but clubs dominant in their own league remain so in big games."
Celtic won when the Champions League changed – now they face a familiar challenge
Wednesday 12 February 2025 15:00 , Jamie Braidwood in GlasgowSo far in the first season of the Champions League’s new inflated format, it has often been difficult to pinpoint the fixtures that matter and the ones that are just making up the numbers. But as Celtic welcome Bayern Munich to Glasgow for a play-off, 12 years to the day since the last time they hosted a Champions League knockout tie, there will be no doubting the significance of the occasion. “Very excited by it,” said Brendan Rodgers. “A great challenge for us.”
Celtic won when the Champions League changed – now they face a familiar challenge
Celtic vs Bayern team news, odds and prediction
Wednesday 12 February 2025 14:45 , Jamie BraidwoodPrediction
Bayern Munich are the massive favourites to win this one and they should get the job done. Vincent Kompany may decide to go all out and try to settle the tie in the first leg with the knowledge that Bayern play the second leg at home and can rectify any slip ups. Celtic face a big test but if they can score they may be able to force an upset as Bayern’s European form hasn’t been fantastic this season.
Odds
Celtic to win - 11/2
Draw - 16/5
Bayern Munich to win - 3/10
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Is Celtic vs Bayern Munich on TV? Kick-off time, channel and how to watch
What is the Bayern team news?
Wednesday 12 February 2025 14:30 , Jamie BraidwoodFor Bayern,the likes of Alphonso Davies, Hiroki Ito, Joao Palhinha and Serge Gnabry are set to be assessed before the match in Scotland.
Harry Kane, Jamal Musiala, Michael Olise and Leroy Sane are expected to form a formidable front four - but Vincent Kompany has Saturday’s Bundesliga clash with Bayer Leverkusen to consider too.
What is the Celtic team news?
Wednesday 12 February 2025 14:15 , Jamie BraidwoodDaizen Maeda, who has scored six goals in his last three games, is available for the first leg after his suspension was reduced from two Champions League games to one. The Japanese forward missed Celtic’s last match following his red card against Young Boys in the league phase.
James Forrest remains out with a foot injury he picked up against Rangers in December.
Team news
Wednesday 12 February 2025 14:14 , Chris WilsonLine-ups should be announced in the next five minutes or so, so here’s a reminder of the early team news.
Daizen Maeda, who has scored six goals in his last three games, is available for the first leg after his suspension was reduced from two Champions League games to one. The Japanese forward missed Celtic’s last match following his red card against Young Boys in the league phase.
James Forrest remains out with a foot injury he picked up against Rangers in December.
For Bayern, the likes of Alphonso Davies, Hiroki Ito, Joao Palhinha and Serge Gnabry are set to be assessed before the match in Scotland.
Harry Kane, Jamal Musiala, Michael Olise and Leroy Sane are expected to form a formidable front four - but Vincent Kompany has Saturday’s Bundesliga clash with Bayer Leverkusen to consider too.
Is Celtic vs Bayern Munich on TV? Kick-off time, channel and how to watch Champions League fixture
Wednesday 12 February 2025 14:05 , Jamie BraidwoodWhen is Celtic vs Bayern Munich?
The Champions League play-off first leg between Celtic and Bayern Munich is due to kick off at 8pm GMT on Wednesday 12 February at Celtic Park.
How can I watch it?
Viewers in the United Kingdom can watch the match live on TNT Sports 2 with coverage beginning at 7pm. Subscribers can also stream the match live on Discovery+.
Good afternoon
Wednesday 12 February 2025 14:00 , Jamie BraidwoodCeltic’s performances through the league phase of the Champions League ensured they qualified for the play-off round and have a shot at reaching the last 16.
Brendan Rodgers’ team won three and drew three of their eight league games to finish 21st in the table, ahead of Manchester City, and set up a clash with the Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich.
Since a 4-2 loss to Aston Villa in their final league phase match, the Hoops have won all three of their fixtures notching up 14 goals and conceding just once. They are in decent form but Bayern will be their biggest test of the season so far.
Vincent Kompany’s side finished 12th, one point outside the automatic last-16 berths, and will want to continue their run in the competition. Bayern are top of their domestic league with a lead of eight points which gives them leeway to field a strong team for this encounter.
Celtic vs Bayern Munich LIVE
Wednesday 12 February 2025 10:05 , Harry Latham-CoyleIt’s another huge night of Champions League action as the new play-off round rolls on. Celtic face a tricky tie against Bayern Munich but will have home advantage in the first leg as the German giants come to Glasgow.
Kick off is at 8pm GMT.
