Champions League: Celtic to complete their job in style

Celtic should be celebrating when the final whistle blows

Celtic must better Benfica's result at the Camp Nou and, with Barcelona in merciless form, there is every chance of a party in Glasgow on Wednesday...

Celtic v Spartak Moscow, Wednesday 19:45, Sky Sports 3, Match Odds: Celtic 1.594/7, Spartak Moscow 6.05/1, The Draw 4.47/2

Celtic's fate rests in part with Barcelona's game against Benfica, but even if the Portuguese earn a point in Spain against the rampaging La Liga leaders, a Hoops victory against Spartak Moscow would ensure progression from Group G.

That win is infinitely achievable for the Scottish side, having already put together a memorable campaign, instigated by a dramatic 3-2 away triumph over the same opposition in just their second group match.

Unlike that evening, Spartak having nothing to play for now. They are already eliminated, with no chance of making the Europa League place either.

The Russians' miserable campaign, in which they have lost four out of their five games, including both previous away fixtures, has culminated in a fifth successive early Champions League group-stage exit.

Added to this, their recent poor domestic form has spelled the end for ex-Valencia boss Unai Emery, who lasted just six months in his post.

Celtic Park has been a real fortress for the Scottish champions in the Champions League - having lost just two of their last 22 games there (excluding qualifiers) - and of course the Bhoys' last European outing there produced that stunning 2-1 victory over Barcelona.

In front of what is sure to be one of the most electric crowds of this season's competition, Celtic are rightly overwhelming favourites for victory.

Half-Time/Full-Time

Celtic will be so fired up that they will come flying out of the traps like greyhounds on derby day. The Hoops have taken the lead in three of their five Champions League matches this season and have scored in the first half in three of their last four games in all competitions. Spurred on by a vociferous support, don't expect Neil Lennon's side to let up for a moment here. 

Celtic to score in both halves

If Celtic are to post a convincing victory, the likelihood is that they will find the net either side of the interval. This is something that they achieved in both their other group-stage victories this term, with goals inside the last ten minutes on both occasions.

Recommended Bet: Back Celtic to lead at half-time and full-time @ 2.466/4
Other Recommended Bet: Back Celtic to score in both halves @ 2.47/5