SLOVAN Bratislava manager Vladimir Weiss Snr is gearing up for a rematch with Celtic in the Champions League, aiming to recreate the stunning upset he orchestrated over a decade ago with the support of his son, Vladimir Jnr. The elder Weiss was at the helm of Artmedia Bratislava when they shocked Celtic with a 5-0 victory in 2005, a result that paved the way for a memorable 5-4 aggregate win in the qualifiers. Now, with his Slovan team facing the Scottish giants once again, Weiss Snr is confident in his ability to cause problems for Brendan Rodgers’ side.
Weiss Snr, a seasoned coach with a wealth of experience, is well aware of the challenges his team will face against Celtic. Despite being considered underdogs in their league phase opener, he remains optimistic about their chances of pulling off an upset. Reflecting on the Artmedia triumph, he acknowledges that it was a different era and a different Celtic team they faced. However, he believes that his current squad is capable of matching up to the fast-paced style of play employed by Rodgers’ side.
The atmosphere at Parkhead is legendary, with many players describing it as one of the best in the world. Weiss Snr acknowledges the energy and emotions that Celtic draw from their fans but emphasizes the importance of self-confidence and discipline in facing such challenges. With players who have experienced the intensity of Celtic Park before, Slovan is prepared to withstand the pressure and make the most of their opportunities on the pitch.
Champions League Ambitions
For Weiss Snr, leading Slovan into the Champions League main stage has been a long-standing goal. After guiding the team through qualifiers and witnessing their growth and evolution, he is proud of the progress they have made. The players have shown dedication and determination, attracting fans back to the stadium and bringing joy to the supporters. This sense of pride and accomplishment fuels Slovan’s ambition as they enter the prestigious competition.
As they prepare to face Celtic, Weiss Snr is focused on showcasing Slovan’s fighting spirit and resilience. The Champions League represents the pinnacle of club football, with the best teams in the world competing for glory. Despite being considered underdogs, Slovan is determined to make an impact and surprise their opponents. With the unpredictability of football, anything is possible, and Weiss Snr is eager to see his team rise to the occasion and challenge the status quo.
Familiar Faces and Rivalries
Adding to the intrigue of the upcoming clash is the personal connection between the Weiss family and Scottish football. Slovan captain Vladimir Weiss Jnr, who had a successful stint at Rangers in the past, is a lifelong fan of the club. His time at Ibrox culminated in a memorable victory over Celtic in the League Cup final, a moment that holds a special place in his heart. Now, facing Celtic once again, but this time in Slovan colors, Weiss Jnr is ready to embrace the challenge and contribute to his team’s efforts on the pitch.
Weiss Snr acknowledges the significance of the Celtic-Rangers rivalry and the impact it has had on his family. With his son’s ties to Rangers and his own experiences in European football, the upcoming match holds personal significance for the Weiss family. As they prepare to step onto the field at Parkhead, the father and son duo are united in their commitment to representing Slovan and competing against one of the top clubs in Europe.
In conclusion, Slovan Bratislava’s manager Vladimir Weiss Snr is determined to recapture the magic of the past as he leads his team into a challenging Champions League encounter with Celtic. With the support of his son Vladimir Jnr, a former Rangers player and fan, Weiss Snr is confident in Slovan’s ability to compete against their formidable opponents. As they prepare to face Celtic at Parkhead, the Weiss family’s shared love for football and dedication to the game shines through, highlighting the passion and pride that drives them on the road to success.