Kairat Almaty vs Celtic Prediction, Preview, News, Odds: 26/8/2025

The Champions League qualifiers continue with one of the most intriguing ties of the round: Kairat Almaty of Kazakhstan against Scottish champions Celtic. Against all expectations, the Kazakh side held firm in the first leg at Celtic Park, grinding out a 0-0 draw and leaving themselves just 90 minutes—plus extra time if needed—away from a historic qualification to the group stage.

Kairat Almaty’s Surprising Run

Kairat’s journey has already turned heads across Europe. They began with a convincing 3-1 aggregate win over Olimpija Ljubljana in the opening round, followed by a stunning comeback against KuPS: a 2-0 defeat in the first leg overturned with a resounding 3-0 win at home. Their biggest scalp came in the third round, where they eliminated Slovan Bratislava, a team that had reached the Champions League group stage last season.

The Kazakh side did not feature in domestic league action last weekend, benefitting from a lighter schedule to prepare for this decisive clash. They will also be boosted by the return of midfielder Gromyko, suspended in the first leg and a key figure with four goals and five assists in league play.

However, absences remain an issue. Brazilian attackers João Paulo and Elder Santana are unlikely to feature due to fitness problems, leaving the offensive burden on Jorginho (two goals, two assists in the qualifiers) and 17-year-old rising star Dastan Satpaev, who has already scored three Champions League goals. Midfielder Zaria, with five league goals this season, is expected to start, alongside new Brazilian signing Edmilson Santos, who has made an immediate impact with three goals in four appearances.

Celtic: Domestic Dominance Meets European Pressure

For Celtic, the first leg was a missed opportunity. Expected to capitalize at home in front of a packed Celtic Park, they were instead frustrated, failing to break down Kairat’s disciplined defense. That goalless draw leaves them with everything to prove in the second leg.

Domestically, however, the Scottish giants remain unstoppable. Celtic have won 13 of the last 14 league titles and started the current season with victories over St. Mirren (1-0) and Aberdeen (2-0). They aimed to make it three wins in a row with their weekend clash against Livingston.

Squad depth remains a concern. Portuguese winger Jota, who rejoined the club last winter, is expected to miss out again. Full-back Anthony Ralston Johnstone, who contributed four goals and ten assists last season, picked up an injury in the first leg and could also be sidelined—a blow given his offensive influence. New summer signing Inamura is also unavailable.

On the positive side, Celtic’s summer recruitment has added options. Former Arsenal left-back Kieran Tierney returned on a free transfer, Swedish forward Benjamin Nygren has already made his mark with a goal and assist against Aberdeen, while goalkeeper Ross Doohan and Welsh youngster Callum Osmand have been registered for European competition. Loan arrival Jahmai Simpson-Pusey, from Manchester City, was on the bench in the first leg but did not feature.

Crucially, Celtic have retained key contributors: Daizen Maeda (16 goals, 10 assists last season), Adam Idah (13 goals), Japanese midfielder Reo Hatate (10 goals, 4 assists), and Belgian talent Arne Engels (9 goals, 6 assists). The main departure was winger Kuhn, who left after producing 13 goals and 9 assists last season.

Tactical Outlook

Kairat will once again look to stay compact, frustrating Celtic with numbers behind the ball while relying on Jorginho and Satpaev to provide moments of inspiration on the counter. The return of Gromyko in midfield adds energy and creativity, and Zaria’s late runs could be decisive.

Celtic, on the other hand, will look to impose their usual fast-paced, attacking style. Without Jota and possibly Johnstone, their width could be reduced, but Maeda’s work rate and Idah’s physical presence up front will be key to stretching Kairat’s backline.

Prediction: Celtic to Prevail

While Kairat Almaty have been the surprise package of this year’s qualifiers, Celtic’s quality, experience, and European pedigree should shine through in the decisive leg. Their strong away form in Europe—eight consecutive wins in Champions League fixtures on the road—contrasts sharply with Kairat’s poor home record, having lost their last four matches in Almaty while conceding 12 goals.

Prediction: Kairat Almaty 1:3 Celtic