Borussia dortmund vs celtic f.c. lineups- The clash between Borussia Dortmund and Celtic F.C. is a highly anticipated fixture in European football, drawing attention from fans across the globe. Both teams boast a rich history, passionate fanbases, and distinct playing styles, making any encounter between them a spectacle. One of the most significant elements that fans look for before these matchups are the lineups—how each team will set up, who will play, and how the tactical battle will unfold. In this article, we’ll delve into the lineups for Borussia Dortmund vs Celtic F.C., breaking down the key players, strategies, and the tactical nuances that define the game.
Borussia Dortmund: A Look at the Lineup
Borussia Dortmund, known for their high-pressing, fast-paced football, are a team that rarely fails to entertain. Their lineup typically features a mix of experienced internationals and emerging young talents. When facing teams like Celtic, they tend to emphasize speed and creativity, aiming to exploit the spaces behind the opposition’s defense.
Goalkeeper and Defense
In goal, Dortmund typically rely on their established goalkeeper, who provides a solid foundation at the back. Historically, they have had goalkeepers like Roman Bürki or Gregor Kobel, who have been key figures in their defensive structure. The goalkeeper’s role is not just to stop shots but also to start the attack, often playing a pivotal part in building from the back.
The defense is usually a blend of youthful exuberance and veteran experience. Full-backs like Raphaël Guerreiro and Thomas Meunier offer both attacking and defensive stability, pushing forward to provide width while maintaining responsibility at the back. In central defense, Dortmund often feature players like Mats Hummels, a stalwart leader with exceptional reading of the game. Alongside him might be a younger player like Nico Schlotterbeck, who provides speed and agility, forming a solid partnership at the heart of the defense.
Midfield
Dortmund’s midfield is often the engine room of their team. With players like Jude Bellingham, they can dominate possession and transition from defense to attack smoothly. Bellingham, a dynamic and physically strong midfielder, has been instrumental in driving the team forward with his vision and energy. Alongside him, the midfield may include the likes of Emre Can, a versatile player capable of breaking up opposition attacks and contributing to offensive moves.
When facing teams like Celtic, Dortmund’s midfield will likely be tasked with controlling the game and dictating the tempo, ensuring that their attacking players have the ball in dangerous areas. The role of the playmaker is crucial here, with players like Marco Reus expected to take on creative responsibilities, unlocking defenses with clever passes.
Attack
Dortmund’s attacking setup is their most exciting and dynamic aspect. The team typically fields a forward who can lead the line, often Erling Haaland in recent years, but in his absence, players like Sébastien Haller or Youssoufa Moukoko have taken up the mantle. Dortmund’s style of play is heavily reliant on quick transitions and attacking in numbers, and their forwards need to be quick, intelligent, and clinical in front of goal.
On the wings, Dortmund often deploy fast and skillful players who can stretch the opposition’s defense. Players like Giovanni Reyna and Julian Brandt bring creativity and flair, capable of both cutting inside and delivering precise crosses. Their role in stretching the opposition and creating space for central attackers is vital in Dortmund’s offensive approach.
Tactical Setup
Borussia Dortmund tends to set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasizing width and flexibility. The full-backs push high up the pitch, while the midfielders support both defensive duties and attacking transitions. The wingers are instructed to drift inside or attack the byline, delivering dangerous crosses into the box for the central striker. When facing Celtic, Dortmund’s high press and ability to regain possession quickly are likely to be key factors in disrupting Celtic’s rhythm.
Celtic F.C.: Analyzing the Lineup
Celtic F.C., Scotland’s most successful club, brings its own set of strengths to the table when facing a European powerhouse like Borussia Dortmund. Known for their attacking football and high-energy play, Celtic will look to match Dortmund’s intensity and pace. Their lineup often features a mix of experienced campaigners and exciting young players, with a clear tactical structure designed to maintain possession and create opportunities.
Goalkeeper and Defense
Celtic’s defense is typically built around a strong goalkeeper and a solid defensive line. The goalkeeper, usually someone like Joe Hart, plays a crucial role not only in shot-stopping but in organizing the defense. Hart, with his experience and leadership qualities, is essential in managing the backline, especially against high-pressure teams like Dortmund.
In defense, Celtic often deploys a back four, with full-backs such as Josip Juranović and Greg Taylor providing width and supporting both attack and defense. Central defenders like Cameron Carter-Vickers and Carl Starfelt are key to Celtic’s defensive solidity, capable of neutralizing aerial threats and blocking shots. Against an attacking team like Dortmund, they will need to be well-organized and alert to the threat of quick counter-attacks.
Midfield
Celtic’s midfield is an essential part of their possession-based game. Players like Callum McGregor are crucial in both breaking up the opposition’s attacks and distributing the ball efficiently. McGregor’s leadership and vision allow him to orchestrate the tempo of the game, dictating how Celtic move the ball forward.
Beside him, players like Reo Hatate and Matt O’Riley bring technical ability and creativity to the midfield. They are responsible for linking up play, making runs into dangerous areas, and providing support to both the defense and attack. Against a team like Borussia Dortmund, Celtic’s midfield must stay compact to limit Dortmund’s space while being able to transition quickly when they win the ball.
Attack
Celtic’s attacking lineup is typically spearheaded by a central striker like Kyogo Furuhashi or Giorgos Giakoumakis. Both players bring different qualities to the table—Furuhashi with his pace and clever movement, and Giakoumakis with his physicality and aerial ability. They are supported by wingers who can stretch the defense and provide quality crosses, such as Jota or Liel Abada. These players are key in exploiting spaces behind the opposition’s full-backs and creating chances for the forwards.
Tactical Setup
Celtic usually adopts a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on possession and pressing high when out of possession. The full-backs push forward, and the wingers are tasked with both stretching the opposition’s defense and cutting inside to create goal-scoring opportunities. Their midfielders are expected to keep possession and provide key passes to the forwards. Against a team like Borussia Dortmund, Celtic will likely aim to control the midfield and prevent Dortmund from dictating the game with their quick transitions.
Key Matchups to Watch

Borussia Dortmund’s Attack vs Celtic’s Defense
One of the most intriguing aspects of this matchup is how Borussia Dortmund’s pacey, direct attacking style will fare against Celtic’s solid defensive structure. Dortmund’s forwards, especially with their quick wingers and clinical finishers, will look to exploit the spaces behind Celtic’s defense. On the other hand, Celtic’s defenders will need to be disciplined and avoid getting caught out by Dortmund’s quick counter-attacks.
Midfield Battle: Control and Creativity
The midfield battle will be crucial in determining the flow of the game. Borussia Dortmund’s midfield, with players like Bellingham and Can, will look to dominate possession and disrupt Celtic’s rhythm. However, Celtic’s midfielders like McGregor and Hatate will need to match Dortmund’s intensity and play a key role in transitioning from defense to attack. Whichever team can control the midfield is likely to have the upper hand in the game.
Set Pieces: Aerial Threats
Both teams have players who are a threat from set pieces, and how they utilize these opportunities could be a deciding factor in the game. Borussia Dortmund’s Hummels and Celtic’s Carter-Vickers are both strong in the air, and their ability to score or defend during corners or free kicks could prove pivotal.
Final Thoughts
The Borussia Dortmund vs Celtic F.C. matchup is set to be an exciting, fast-paced encounter with plenty of tactical intrigue. Both teams come into the game with their own strengths and weaknesses, and the lineups will be crucial in determining the outcome. Borussia Dortmund’s attacking dynamism and Celtic’s possession-oriented football create a perfect contrast that should make for a fascinating game. Fans will be eagerly awaiting to see which team’s tactics and lineup will prevail in this European clash.
As we await the final teamsheets, one thing is for certain—both Borussia Dortmund and Celtic F.C. will be bringing their best to the pitch, offering another thrilling chapter in their storied histories. Whether it’s Dortmund’s rapid attacks or Celtic’s midfield dominance, this match promises to deliver entertainment, drama, and footballing excellence.
FAQs
What were the starting lineups for Borussia Dortmund and Celtic FC in their Champions League match on October 1, 2024?
Borussia Dortmund (4-2-3-1):
Goalkeeper: Gregor Kobel
Defenders: Yan Couto, Waldemar Anton, Nico Schlotterbeck, Julian Ryerson
Midfielders: Emre Can (captain), Pascal Groß
Attacking Midfielders: Julian Brandt, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, Karim Adeyemi
Forward: Serhou Guirassy
Celtic FC (4-3-3):
Goalkeeper: Kasper Schmeichel
Defenders: Alistair Johnston, Auston Trusty, Liam Scales, Greg Taylor
Midfielders: Arne Engels, Callum McGregor (captain), Paulo Bernardo
Forwards: Nicolas Kühn, Kyogo Furuhashi, Daizen Maeda
These lineups were confirmed prior to the match.
Were there any notable absences or injuries affecting the lineups?
Both teams fielded strong lineups without significant absences due to injuries or suspensions. Borussia Dortmund maintained the same starting eleven that secured a 4-2 victory over VfL Bochum in their previous match, indicating a stable squad selection.
How did the formations impact the gameplay?
Borussia Dortmund employed a 4-2-3-1 formation, providing a balanced approach with defensive solidity and attacking support. This setup allowed wingers Karim Adeyemi and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens to exploit the flanks, while Serhou Guirassy spearheaded the attack. Celtic’s 4-3-3 formation aimed to offer width and attacking options, with a midfield trio supporting both defense and offense.
Who were the standout players in the match?
Karim Adeyemi was a standout performer, scoring a first-half hat-trick that significantly contributed to Borussia Dortmund’s dominant 7-1 victory. Emre Can and Serhou Guirassy also made notable contributions, with Can scoring an early penalty and Guirassy adding two goals.
Were there any significant substitutions during the match?
Specific details about substitutions during the match are not provided in the available sources. However, it’s common for teams to make tactical changes during such matches to manage player fatigue and adjust strategies.
How did the match result affect the teams’ standings in the Champions League?
Borussia Dortmund’s emphatic 7-1 victory would have positively impacted their position in the group stage, boosting their goal difference and confidence. Conversely, Celtic FC would need to reassess their strategies in subsequent matches to improve their standing.
Where can I find detailed statistics and player ratings for this match?
For comprehensive statistics, player ratings, and in-depth analysis, reputable sports websites such as ESPN and Sky Sports provide detailed match reports and player assessments.
Are there highlights or replays available for this match?
Borussia dortmund vs celtic f.c. lineups- Highlights and match replays are typically available on official UEFA platforms, as well as on sports broadcasting networks like Sky Sports and ESPN. Additionally, platforms like YouTube may host highlight reels uploaded by official sports channels.
How can I stay updated on future matches between Borussia Dortmund and Celtic FC?
Borussia dortmund vs celtic f.c. lineups- To stay informed about upcoming fixtures, lineups, and match results involving Borussia Dortmund and Celtic FC, consider following their official websites and social media channels. Sports news outlets and the official UEFA website also provide schedules and updates on Champions League matches.
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