Celtic cannot afford a Euro hangover at Hampden
I RECKON Celtic will probably beat Rangers in today’s League Cup semi-final.
But I don’t believe there will be any repeat of the 5-1 Premiership thumping at Parkhead.
The game at Hampden should be a lot closer for two reasons.
Rangers have undoubtedly improved since the last game, although there are still big questions about their central defence.
However, the big variable is the way Celtic react to their midweek defeat by Borussia Monchengladbach
I believe that was the most-important game they’ve played this season so far and they were well beaten.
Of course, matches against Rangers are always hugely significant.
But Celtic had an opportunity to have a great chance of making it to the Europa League by beating the Germans at home.
The game showed there is a big gulf between Scottish football and the Bundesliga.
Brendan Rodgers’ men have to accept that reality and see challenging in Europe as a long-term job.
If they let it affect them, then Rangers could benefit today.