Celtic looked like the clear fourth best team in Group G entering Champions League play, but they could end the day in second place, even if they get thrashed by Barcelona. No one is expecting the Bhoys to manage a draw at Camp Nou, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t have something to play for.
Barcelona vs. Celtic, 2012 UEFA Champions League: Preview and TV schedule
Celtic probably can’t get a result at Camp Nou, but if they can avoid a beating at the hands of Barcelona, they might end up second in their group halfway through the group stage.
The Scottish Champions seem to be difficult to separate from Spartak Moscow and Benfica at the moment, and goal differential could be key at the end of the the group stage. While Celtic supporters can’t expect a result, they should expect their side to keep Barcelona reasonably contained. A one-goal loss is a very good result for Celtic, and a two-goal loss isn’t bad either.
Barcelona injuries and suspensions
Out: Carles Puyol (elbow), Gerard Pique (ankle), Daniel Alves (hamstring), Thiago Alcántara, (knee), Isaac Cuenca (knee), Marc Muniesa (knee), Éric Abidal (liver transplant).
Celtic injuries and suspensions
Out: Lassad Nouioui (knee), Dylan McGeouch (jaw). In doubt: Scott Brown (hip), James Forrest (groin), Georgios Samaras (elbow), Kris Commons (hamstring), Adam Matthews (knee), Kelvin Wilson (calf).
All of Barcelona's injuries are fairly long-term absences and they're not dealing with anything new on that front. Lassad's injury occurred over the weekend, while Celtic's vast array of in-doubt players should make the 18-man squad, for the most part. It would be surprising to see Brown, Samaras and Commons left out of the starting XI, but they'll have to pass late fitness tests.
Match Date/Time: 8:45 p.m. local, 2:45 p.m. ET
Venue: Camp Nou, Barcelona, Spain
TV: FOX Sports regional networks (U.S. - English), FOX Deportes (U.S. - Spanish), Sportsnet One (Canada), Sky Sports 2 (U.K.), TVE La Primera (Spain)
Online: FOX Soccer 2 Go (U.S.)
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