Celtic clash is 'Atletico Madrid's most important match'

Radio Marca journalist Jose Rodriguez believes that Wednesday's Champions League clash between Celtic and Atletico Madrid is the Spanish side's most important game of the season so far.

Diego Simone's side sit second in Group E on five points, one point ahead of Lazio and four ahead of Celtic after three games.

“Tomorrow, for me, is the most important match in all the season for Atletico Madrid," Rodriguez said to BBC Scotland.

"Last year, they were out of Europe very early in the season - that was very annoying for the supporters, all the club because the loss of the money was very important."

Atletico drew 2-2 with Celtic in the reverse fixture, but Rodriguez says the fans will demand a win in the Spanish capital, despite losing in the league to Las Palmas in their last outing.

“I think they knew it was going to be a difficult match [in Glasgow]. The player who most surprised Atletico Madrid fans was Maeda, his high speed.

"At home Atletico Madrid have won their last 14 matches in La Liga. This year they have to be first or second [in the group]. The main thing is to qualify [for the knockouts]."

"Friday’s loss [to Las Palmas], a lot of people were surprised, nobody expected it, and the team was radically different.

"One of the two worst matches this season, nobody was at his level and now they need a 180 degree change, because Atletico Madrid is a team that if it’s not at 100% of its level they will suffer in Europe. Especially physically, because Celtic and Feyenoord have been very good in this area.”