Celtic’s Premiership opponents beaten in Europa League Qualifying

Celtic’s Premiership opener opponents Kilmarnock were defeated by Cercle Brugge in their Europa League Qualifier. Having held the Belgians to a 1-1 draw at Rugby Park last week, Derek McInnes’ side would look to frustrate the hosts and book their place in the next round of qualifying.

McInnes, who will now prepare his side for a trip to face the Champions on Sunday, will also have his mind on their next European fixture, against Tromso next week.

The game was described as being scrappy with little quality, which is probably what McInnes and his side will look to replicate at Celtic Park on Sunday.

Brendan and his coaching staff will likely have analysed the game in Brugge and will hope to exploit any weaknesses that were evident in the game. The Killie team may be feeling somewhat tired after their trip to Europe, which could mean they’ll sit in even deeper than usual.

The sides meet at Celtic Park on Sunday afternoon as the league flag is unfurled, commemorating last season’s title success before the first game in the new title hunt begins.