Celtic vs Lask Linz - UEFA Champions League

When Celtic and Lask Linz clash at the home ground on August 19, 2026, the stakes extend well beyond a single result — this is a UEFA Champions League fixture that carries real weight for both clubs. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Ahead of the first leg of the UEFA Conference League play-off tie against Czech side Jablonec at Ibrox on Thursday, McInnes said: "I said that when I spoke to Lawrence.

Form and standings can only tell part of the story when Celtic and Lask Linz cross paths in the UEFA Champions League, and pride alone should guarantee a contest. Celtic will be keen to seize the initiative and build some momentum on home soil. The visitors have found the going tough on their travels, L in their last five and a win rate of just 0% telling its own story. Leeds will not improve on their third offer but have left it on the table in case Saints reconsider their position.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. Celtic will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while Lask Linz will back themselves to cause problems on the break. And there are still question marks even in attack, where they have an abundance of supporting forwards including Mbeumo, Cunha and Amad Diallo, but only one out-and-out striker in Sesko.

The fixture features no shortage of talent, and the league's top marksman Talisca — 4 goals this term — will be one to watch. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. Newcastle and Nottingham Forest were interested in the midfielder, and it remains to be seen whether he will be at the club after deadline day.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. With the sides so closely matched, a 1-1 stalemate looks the most likely way this one ends. With positions in the UEFA Champions League table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Harry Kane is the favourite to win the Ballon d’Or.