Celtic can edge out familiar foes Rosenborg in exciting clash

Group B
BT Sport 3, 8pm Thursday

The Europa League often presents teams with the chance to pit their wits against unfamiliar opposition, but Celtic and Rosenborg know each other inside out.

It is the fifth time in 14 months that the teams have clashed, with the Bhoys having already got the better of the Norwegian league leaders over two legs in this season's Champions League qualifiers.

July's meeting at Parkhead resulted in a 3-1 home win and while Brendan Rodgers's side have kept four successive clean sheets, there is scope for Rosenborg to get on the scoresheet again, even if former Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner is injured.

Rosenborg fought their way through the Europa League qualifiers after their Champions League exit, but they have been full of goals both domestically and in Europe, scoring at least twice in eight of their last ten matches.

Celtic have scored ten goals in their four home European games this team and look likely to be positive having failed to breach St Mirren's defence last time out - they had to play more than half the game with ten men following Olivier Ntcham's red card.

Having slipped five points behind Hearts in the Ladbrokes Premiership, the Celtic faithful will anticipate a show from their heroes, which could create gaps that the visitors can exploit.

Rodgers' boys can get off to a winning start but it is worth chancing that Rosenborg can make their mark as well.

Recommendation
Celtic to win & both teams to score
1pts 40-17 188Bet

Bet on this game at Soccerbase.com

Team news
Celtic
Nir Bitton and Jozo Simunovic face late fitness tests but Jack Hendry is out.

Rosenborg
Striker Nicklas Bendtner is doubtful with a thigh injury while Amuel Adegbenro and Alex Gersbach are out.

Key stat
Celtic are undefeated in their four games against Rosenborg since July 2017.

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