Celtic – AZ Alkmaar

The Europa League is back in action with another set of qualifiers this week as Celtic lock horns with AZ Alkmaar on Thursday. Both teams have impressive players in their ranks and have a point to prove this week. Celtic have endured a difficult year and conceded their league crown to Rangers last season. AZ Alkmaar, on the other hand, finished in third place in the Eredivisie last season and will be intent on featuring in the Europa League this year.

Celtic have never played a match against AZ Alkmaar and will have to solve a few issues ahead of this game. The Scottish giants have hit their stride this week and will set their sights on an aggregate victory. AZ Alkmaar have faced Scottish opposition on only one occasion, with their previous meeting against Rangers ending in a narrow 1-0 victory in the 2004-05 UEFA Cup.

Celtic have recovered from their slump and have scored an astonishing 12 goals in their last three games. AZ Alkmaar can pack a punch on their day but have been fairly inconsistent over the past year. Celtic are the better team at the moment and hold a slight upper hand going into this match.