Despite never having won a competitive match in Germany, Celtic’s strong start to the season showcases a newfound confidence that could set the stage for a historic upset.

**Champions League Showdown: Borussia Dortmund vs. Celtic** **Date:** Tuesday **Time:** 8:00 PM **Watch Live:** Virgin Media Two & TNT Sports 2

Painful experiences from Munich, Madrid, Paris, and Barcelona would typically make Celtic approach a Champions League trip to Borussia Dortmund with at least some trepidation. However, the striking confidence exuded by Brendan Rodgers reflects a team that has found its rhythm long before the clocks change. While Rodgers isn’t guaranteeing a statement victory against last season’s finalists, he clearly believes such an outcome is within reach.“For us, it’s about taking our game to the next level,” Rodgers said. “I think how we’ve been performing over the last six or seven months has been consistently improving.” This belief in their capability sets the stage for an intriguing encounter in Germany.

“Now we’ve reached this level, and we’re under no illusions about that,” Rodgers stated. “We’re playing against a team that challenges the very top end of elite football. But for us, I’ve always said, whether it’s domestically or in this competition, it’s about making ourselves a really difficult team to play against, both with and without the ball. That’s what we aim to achieve. I’m not looking for perfection; I just want us to be incredibly hard to play against and to give everything we have.“We need to bring our game, which is to press, fight, and run. We understand that at times, their quality might push us back, so resilience in those moments is key. However, we also know we possess a style of play that can hurt teams with our football and speed. So, I’m genuinely excited to see that on display.”

Rodgers is more than willing to promote the notion that he is managing a Celtic side capable of being a different force in Europe compared to the team that has suffered painful defeats against the continent’s elite over the past decade. “It’s all about mindset, belief, and experience,” he remarked regarding the transformation. “I think we’ve also brought in some players who provide us with crucial qualities in key areas of the pitch that we need.” This renewed confidence and tactical depth could make a significant difference in their Champions League campaign.

Indeed, Celtic arrived in Germany on Monday with an impressive record of nine wins out of nine this season, having scored 33 goals and conceded just four. While the most notable fixture might have been their 3-0 triumph over Rangers, it was their stunning 5-1 dismantling of Slovan Bratislava that truly set the tone for their Champions League campaign. This formidable form has elevated their confidence as they prepare to face Borussia Dortmund.

“I think we’re arriving in a great place,” Rodgers stated. “I trace it back to preseason. The games we played then allowed us to face some big teams and examine how we wanted to perform at this level. I was very, very pleased with what I saw, and that momentum has carried through. So, coming here presents a fantastic opportunity for us, and I’m excited about it.”However, Celtic will be without their influential center-back Cameron Carter-Vickers, who is remaining in Glasgow for treatment on a toe injury. His absence will be felt as the team prepares for this crucial Champions League clash.

Anyone hoping for fireworks between Rodgers and his counterpart at Dortmund, Nuri Sahin, may be disappointed. Sahin had an abbreviated loan spell at Liverpool under Rodgers in 2012 and was less than complimentary about the Northern Irishman upon his departure from Anfield. His career was significantly influenced by Jürgen Klopp at Dortmund.However, Sahin is keen to avoid any negativity regarding the past. “I liked his training sessions; they were very interesting,” the former Turkey international reflected on Rodgers. “I was already taking notes for my own coaching career.” This recognition of Rodgers’ coaching style suggests a mutual respect that could set a positive tone for their upcoming clash.

“I don’t know what I said back in the day when I was younger, but the only issue was that I played in a different position than I usually did. The problem for me was that Steven Gerrard occupied my position, so I had to adjust,” Sahin explained. “Other than that, I really enjoyed my time at Liverpool and under Brendan. I appreciated every training session with him; his ideas were very possession-oriented, focusing on playing in the opposition half. I can only say good things about him and my time there.” This positive reflection highlights a professional relationship that, despite past challenges, has evolved into mutual respect.

Rodgers described Sahin as “a good guy,” noting, “He loved his football, trained very well, and was super professional. After leaving Liverpool, he returned to Dortmund, and I’ve followed his career since then. It’ll be great to see him as he takes his first steps as a manager. He now understands the challenges that come with management and all the various issues that arise. So, I’m looking forward to seeing him.” This acknowledgment reflects Rodgers’ respect for Sahin’s journey and his excitement about their upcoming encounter.