After a blistering start to their domestic season, Celtic will begin their Champions League campaign on Wednesday night by hosting LASK in the first leg of the play-off round. The spirit must be high in the camp after the weekend’s thumping 4-0 League Cup win at Tannadice Park against Dundee United. But the Austrian heavyweights, who won their first league title in 61 years, would be more resolute in deep defence.
Meanwhile, the LASK boss Dietmar Kühbauer considers the home side favourites for this European encounter. However, he calls for a balanced and proactive performance in Glasgow rather than a purely defensive approach, and this midweek contest would be a tactical battle between two domestic champions in their first-ever competitive meeting for a lucrative league-phase spot in this coveted tournament.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Celtic Lineup To Face LASK
Defence
The Hoops are weighing up a move for another goalkeeper. But they are not in a rush, thanks to Viljami Sinisalo’s command and composure ever since replacing the injured Kasper Schmeichel between the sticks earlier this year.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – JULY 25: Cameron Carter-Vickers of Celtic making a pass during Celtic v AC Milan in a pre-season friendly at Celtic Park on July 25, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)
Alistair Johnston’s injury is a massive blow, and the gaffer Martin O’Neill is likely to rely on Colby Donovan down the right, having preferred him over Anthony Ralston in recent fixtures. Liam Scales got the nod against the Tangerines as a left fullback, but could make way for Kieran Tierney, who remains the preferred choice for his flair, finesse and trademark crosses. The USMNT duo Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty should continue as the first-team central defensive pairing.
Midfield
Mika Baur has been brought in to replace Arne Engels in the middle of the park. The German youngster made his debut against Dundee United as a second-half substitute, and the manager should now hand him a start at Parkhead over the suspended Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain alongside skipper Callum McGregor deep as the ‘double pivot’.
Benjamin Nygren, a revelation since his low-key transfer last summer, must retain his ‘number 10’ status. Camilo Duran has been deployed from the right, and his assist and goal in recent games would boost his confidence after losing his ‘number 9’ role to Kasper Høgh. Yang Hyun-jun missed Saturday’s game, but O’Neill expects him to be available for tomorrow’s test. Sebastian Tounekti grabbed the opportunity in his absence and should keep his place on the left, having scored and assisted in the second half. Haissem Hassan could be involved from the bench, as Egypt’s World Cup hero needs more time to rebuild his match fitness.
Attack
Høgh has already made his presence known in Scottish football by netting a hat-trick against Kilmarnock. He enjoyed an exquisite run in last season’s Champions League in Bodø/Glimt’s colours, and the Celts’ club-record signing must exhibit his poaching traits once again while spearheading the attack.