“Pressure Mounts as Celtic Manager Warns Fans Against Pyrotechnics Ahead of Key Leipzig Showdown”
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has once again urged the club’s fans to refrain from using pyrotechnics, especially with the Champions League match against RB Leipzig approaching, which raises concerns about a potential UEFA ban.
The use of fireworks by supporters during last month’s 7-1 loss to Borussia Dortmund resulted in a UEFA fine for Celtic, and the club was warned that fans would be banned from attending an away game if there were another incident within two years. This warning was taken seriously during Celtic’s recent away draw against Atalanta, but kickoff at Saturday’s Scottish League Cup semi-final against Aberdeen was delayed due to another pyrotechnic display by fans. UEFA is closely monitoring the situation.
Rodgers has labeled fans who use fireworks as selfish and hopes to avoid a repeat of Saturday’s incidents when Leipzig visits Glasgow on Tuesday. “It’s just like we said before; it’s not something we want to see. The threat of sanctions is looming over the club, and we want to avoid that.”
If his warnings go unheeded, the travel ban could affect Celtic’s trip to Zagreb in December.
On a brighter note, Celtic’s performance in the Champions League has been commendable. Their recent draw in Bergamo has brought them to four points from three matches. Leipzig is under pressure after losing their first three games, including a recent defeat to Liverpool.
“I think Leipzig will be similar to Atalanta and Borussia Dortmund—they are a top team in their league,” said Rodgers. “They possess all the qualities of a strong European side: speed, strength, power, and technique.
This presents a fantastic challenge for us, and we are eager for it. After being away for the last few games, we are coming off a great result against Atalanta and are back at home, which is exciting. Both teams will be desperate for points, setting the stage for an excellent match.
Rodgers emphasized the importance of focus, commitment, and teamwork, drawing from what Atalanta demonstrated at the highest level. “Their synchronization in actions, moving up the pitch, and filling in spaces was impressive. We will need similar moments of cohesion to earn the ri
ght to play.”