Celtic's Europa League clash with Stuttgart is a highly anticipated affair, and former player Andreas Hinkel has some intriguing insights. But here's the catch: Hinkel suggests a potential advantage for Stuttgart, which might not sit well with Celtic fans.
Hinkel's take? He believes that playing the second leg at home gives Stuttgart a slight edge. This is a crucial detail, as it hints at a potential challenge for Celtic. But here's where it gets interesting: Stuttgart's away form this season has been less than stellar, losing three out of four games on the road. And this is the part most fans might overlook: these losses were against formidable opponents like Basel, Fenerbahce, and Roma, which could be a silver lining for Celtic supporters.
Hinkel recalls Stuttgart's historical struggles in away games, often resulting in heavy defeats in the Champions League and Europa League. He vividly remembers a 5-1 loss in Belgrade, emphasizing the impact of a passionate Celtic Park crowd. Hinkel suggests that with the fans' support, Celtic could turn the tide and create an unpredictable outcome.
The expert also acknowledges Stuttgart's quality, as they compete for Champions League spots in Germany. However, he highlights Celtic's recent resurgence under Martin O'Neill, who has guided the team to hard-fought victories. These results, often secured in injury time, showcase Celtic's resilience and renewed mentality.
So, will Celtic rise to the occasion and defy Hinkel's prediction? Or will Stuttgart's home advantage prove decisive? It's a debate that will surely spark conversations among fans. What do you think? Is Hinkel's analysis on point, or is there more to this story?
