Celtic can exploit Red Star Belgrade’s defensive vulnerabilities

The tactical battle in Belgrade promises to be fascinating. Milojević favours an attacking 4-2-3-1 system, that reflects Red Star’s domestic dominance.

The full-backs are encouraged to push high and stretch the pitch, while the double pivot provides the balance needed for creative midfielders to roam. It is worth noting, in European competition, they also deviate to a 4-4-1-1 formation and can be more cautious than in domestic games.

Serbian playmaker Mirko Ivanić is the key connector between midfield and attack, linking play and unlocking defences with incisive passing. The chief danger, however, comes from Aleksander Katai, a veteran wide forward in sensational form. Katai has started the new season with 11 goals in 10 appearances, combining sharp movement with ruthless finishing. Alongside him, Marko Arnautović brings power, experience and clever hold-up play.

Celtic, meanwhile, are likely to stick with Rodgers’ preferred 4-3-3 shape, built around control in midfield and pace in wide areas. Celtic’s wide players will be critical in stretching Red Star’s defence and exploiting the spaces left by their adventurous full-backs. Quick transitions and well-timed diagonal runs could unsettle a back line that holds a high line and occasionally leaves gaps behind.

Despite their overwhelming domestic statistics, Red Star are not without weaknesses. Their desire to dominate possession and push numbers forward leaves them vulnerable to quick counter-attacks, especially in the channels behind the full-backs. Pafos exploited these areas in the Champions League playoff, switching play rapidly and catching Red Star’s defence flat-footed. Set pieces also represent a potential avenue for Celtic. The Serbian champions have shown uncertainty when defending corners and deep free-kicks, and are sometimes exposed when the delivery is accurate and physical pressure is applied, meanwhile their discipline in the press is not consistent.

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