Celtic will face a stern challenge this Sunday as they travel to Ross County for a crucial Scottish Premiership clash.
Fresh from their bruising 7-1 Champions League defeat to Borussia Dortmund, Brendan Rodgers’ side now have to refocus their efforts on the domestic front.
The lunchtime kick-off, set to be broadcast live on Sky Sports, will likely be a gritty affair as Celtic aim to shake off the European disappointment and come out on top against a physical Ross County side.
Despite the heavy loss to Dortmund, Rodgers has remained resolute in his tactical approach. Yet, there’s no denying that Celtic must rally for what could be a tricky away fixture.
The Highland side is expected to adopt a combative approach, and for Celtic, the key will be to avoid getting drawn into a slugfest. In short, they’ll need to be both mentally and physically prepared for a bruising battle.
Ross County’s defence, led by towering centre-back Kacper Lopata, will be ready to make things as difficult as possible for the visitors.
The 6ft 4in defender is relishing the chance to face Celtic and doesn’t shy away from the physical side of the game.
Speaking to the Press & Journal, Lopata laid bare his intentions: “I like my UFC, I like my boxing and used to do it when I was younger. In terms of that aggression, like anyone, you like to do things you’re good at. If, for me, that’s battering a striker, giving him a bit, then I’m going to do that.”
He added: “Celtic are so good – fast as lightning strikers, who are intelligent. Those kind of strikers I enjoy playing against because it is a cat and mouse game. If I was in their position, I’d be looking to bounce back. They are top players, and that’s what top players do. They are resilient.”
Lopata acknowledged the challenge his side faces but also revealed Ross County’s game plan to disrupt Celtic’s rhythm:
“They don’t dwell on things; they are good technically, sharp and quick, but the mental side of the game is very underrated. Without a doubt, they will be looking to bounce back and get a win.
“It’s up to us to try and stop that from happening. We have to be solid. Give them a yard and they punish us straight away.
“We are going to have to use the dark arts of the game and get our fans on board, manage the game. If we need a breather, we have to take a breather.”
Such comments offer a glimpse into the mindset of Ross County as they prepare for Sunday’s clash. The Highlanders are unlikely to give Celtic an inch, and if the Bhoys are to return to Glasgow with three points, they’ll need to be ready for a physical confrontation.
Celtic, though, are not without players capable of standing up to the fight. Alistair Johnston is known for his no-nonsense style, while Daizen Maeda’s work rate and ability to win the ball back could be crucial in what is expected to be a scrappy affair.
Celtic may also look to Adam Idah as a central option should Kyogo Furuhashi struggle against the imposing Lopata. The Irish striker offers a different dynamic and could either come off the bench or start, depending on Rodgers’ tactical choices.
As ever, match officiating will play a key role in a fixture like this. Referee Kevin Clancy has been appointed to oversee the game, and he’s no stranger to dishing out cards. In his five matches this season, Clancy has averaged 3.6 yellow cards per game.
However, none of those games have seen a red card, so far. He will be assisted by David McGeachie and Gordon McCabe, with Nick Walsh operating the VAR at Clydesdale House.
With so much at stake for both sides, Sunday’s encounter promises to be a tense and possibly fiery affair.
For Celtic, the challenge will be to remain composed and play their own game, even when faced with a Ross County side determined to drag them into a bruising contest. Victory in the Highlands could provide just the boost needed after the Dortmund debacle.