Celtic defender Dedryck Boyata has pointed to the Bhoys’ exploitation of their physical superiority over Qarabag which helped them win the first leg of their Champions League third qualifying round tie.
Boyata scored the only goal with a powerful header in Celtic’s 1-0 win at Celtic Park last night, and the defender has talked up his side taking advantage of their physicality to secure an advantage ahead of their trip to Azerbaijan next week.
The 24-year-old opened up on his side's set-piece practice during pre-season training, which he says the Bhoys felt would be an important aspect in last night's game.
Speaking to the Hoops’ official website, he said: “We saw there was a physical difference between the two teams.
“Since starting in pre-season we have had a good run in set-pieces and before the game we knew that set-pieces would be an important area.”
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The Belgian, who scored the winner in the 82nd minute, has praised the Bhoys’ togetherness, which he feels helped in keeping their composure and scoring the late winner.
“It’s always disappointing when you have possession of the ball and are trying to find ways to score and it doesn’t happen.
“It gets frustrating, but what we did well today was sticking together.
“We had a lot patience and in the end we came through, but we still have a long way to go”, Boyata added.
Celtic will travel to Azerbaijan for the second leg of the tie which is scheduled for next Wednesday.
A win for the Bhoys will send them through to the playoff round, the draw for which will be held on the 7th of August.
