Salzburg should see off Celtic in high-scoring group game

Group B
BT Sport 3, 5.55pm Thursday

Salzburg sizzled in the Red Bull derby against Leipzig in their opening Europa League contest and they should also put Celtic to the sword.

The Austrians, domestic champions for the past five years, reached the Europa League semi-finals last season and are talented enough for the Champions League - the problem is Salzburg keep on messing up in the playoffs, this time it was against Red Star Belgrade.

Salzburg saw off Real Sociedad, Borussia Dortmund and Lazio last term and have been victorious in nine of their last 13 home matches in Europe, a statistic which compares favourably with a Celtic side who are still waiting for their first Europa League away win after 12 failed attempts in the group stage.

Celtic have at least scored in each of their last eight on the road in this competition and can play their part but Salzburg have many excellent players who will soon move on to bigger leagues around Europe.

Recommendation
Salzburg & over 2.5 goals
1pt 13-10 general

Bet on this game at Soccerbase.com

Team news
Salzburg
Key man Amadou Haidara and Andreas Ulmer are doubts, while Patrick Farkes is ruled out.

Celtic
Centre-back Kristoffer Ajer has been ruled out but Odsonne Edouard declared himself fit.

Key stat
Salzburg are unbeaten in their last 13 home European matches.

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