Bayern Munich's Vincent Kompany Cautions Team Against Celtic's Strong Winning Mentality Ahead Of Playoff

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Bayern Munich's head coach, Vincent Kompany, has highlighted the challenge posed by Celtic's winning mentality as they prepare for their Champions League play-off in Glasgow. Despite Bayern leading the Bundesliga, they finished 12th in the Champions League group stage. They must overcome Celtic in this two-legged tie to advance to the last 16.

Celtic's domestic success makes them formidable opponents, according to Kompany. "We play against a team that is used to winning, to always go forward," he stated before facing the Scottish Premiership leaders. Celtic's attacking prowess is evident with five forwards regularly scoring.

Adam Idah and Daizen Maeda have each netted three goals for Brendan Rodgers' side in this season's Champions League. Meanwhile, winger Nicolas Kuhn has been instrumental, creating ten chances after carrying the ball over five metres, more than any other player in the league phase.

Kompany acknowledged that teams dominant domestically often carry that confidence into major matches. "This confidence is something you also take into big games," he said. Celtic have dominated Scottish football, winning 12 of the last 13 league titles and currently leading Rangers by 13 points.

Bayern have faced difficulties away from home in Europe this season, losing three of four road games. Kompany noted that while they respect Celtic, they aim to treat this match like any other significant game. "Winning is the goal," he emphasised.

The German side remains unbeaten in their last 13 encounters with Scottish teams in major European competitions (9 wins and 4 draws). Their last defeat was against Hearts in February 1989 during the UEFA Cup.

Upcoming Second Leg Encounter

The teams will meet again for the second leg on February 18. Kompany stressed the importance of qualifying over both legs and expressed hope that Bayern can quickly establish their intentions in Glasgow.