Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has highlighted the significance of goal difference in the new league phase format of the Champions League this season, emphasizing how it could impact Celtic’s progression. With Brendan Rodgers’ side experiencing both a high and a low so far—thrashing Slovan Bratislava 5-1 but suffering a 7-1 defeat to Borussia Dortmund—the role of goal difference has become increasingly critical.
Rummenigge, speaking to the *Daily Record*, pointed out that under the new format, goals play a much larger role in determining which clubs advance. The league-style format makes matches less predictable compared to the old group phase, where outcomes often became clear by the fourth matchday. He noted that results like Borussia Dortmund’s seven goals against Celtic could be decisive in determining qualification spots.
After two matches, Celtic find themselves in a more precarious position, sitting 20th with a goal difference of minus two, having dropped from an impressive plus-four after their win against Bratislava. With Atalanta up next, avoiding another heavy defeat is crucial for Rodgers’ team to maintain their hopes of progressing. A positive result in Bergamo could set up Celtic for success in their remaining home fixtures against RB Leipzig and Club Brugge, which could be key to securing a top-16 spot and qualification for the next stage.
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