UEFA kept the best for last this evening in the Champions League draw in Monaco. Celtic, who are celebrating the 50th Anniversary of winning the competition in 1966-67 season, were drawn into Group C alongside old friends Barcelona and English qualifiers Manchester City.
An impressive Borussia Monchengladbach were the earlier drawn into the this group from the third pot, making it probably the toughest group of the eight.
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City strolled through the qualifiers beating Steaua Buchacest 6-0 on aggregate with 5 of these goals coming away from home in the first leg. It is unclear whether or not Celtic loanee from City, Paddy Roberts will be eligible for the two games against the English side.
Monchengladbach looked hugely impressive in their 9-2 aggregate win over Young Boys 9-2 on aggregate to progress to the Group Stages and were the side to avoid from the third pot sides.
Celtic were also the highest ranked side on the fourth pot, just adding to the exceptional quality of sides in Group C. Barcelona will be all too familiar the exceptional atmosphere that awaits them at Celtic Park, although the Germans and English may well be in for a surprise at the intensity and the noise that is uniquely created in Paradise. Certainly Celtic must be looking towards the three homes ties as the best chance of getting points.
The fun begins when the Champions kick off on September 13 or 14 – full details on the fixtures and dates to follow.
