The match between Celtic and Spartak Moscow pits two teams that are in positions no one expected them to be early on in the group stage.
The Russian squad was supposed to be a top competitor for the second seed in group G. However, they have already locked up last place in this match and will likely phone it in on the road. The lost their opener to Barcelona despite having a 2-1 lead. They followed that with 3-2 loss to Celtic in which they gifted an own goal. They won 2-1 against Benfica but then lost the second match 2-0 with the Portuguese side. Their casket was sealed in their following 3-0 meltdown at the hands of Barcelona. This team has no hopes of obtaining anything and will be playing for pride.
Celtic was not expected to do much in this group, but is now one win and a Benfica loss away from qualifying for the round of 16. Both are highly feasible; Benfica has to take on Barcelona at the Cmap Nou and Celtic has already defeated Spartak Moscow on the road. They started their tournament with a 0-0 draw to Benfica before beating Moscow. They were most impressive as they took Barcelona down to the 94th minute before losing 2-1 at the last second. They fulfilled the promise of their previous match with a 2-1 win over Barcelona two weeks later. Their momentum was unfortunately cut short against Benfica two weeks ago in a 2-1 loss. This team is solid at home where they managed to take four six points thus far, including three against Barcelona.
Prediction: Celtic has more on the line in this match and they will give their fans a show in a 4-0 win over an aimless Moscow squad.
Start Time: 2:45 PM EST
TV Info: MSG Plus/ Fox Sports Net