<p>Celtic's Champions League dreams hang by a thread as they travel 7,000 miles to Kazakhstan for their playoff decider against Kairat Almaty.</p> <p>After a frustrating 0-0 draw at Celtic Park, Brendan Rodgers' side must overcome altitude, artificial turf, and a resilient opponent to secure their European future.</p> <h2>First Leg Frustrations</h2> <p>Last week’s goalless stalemate at Parkhead left Celtic supporters scratching their heads. The Scottish champions dominated possession but couldn't break down a well-organised Kairat defence that seemed content to frustrate and defend deep. It was classic away-team tactics executed to perfection by the Kazakhs.</p> <p>The result means everything to play for in Almaty, where Celtic face one of European football's most challenging away trips.</p> <p>The thin air at altitude, combined with an artificial pitch surface, creates conditions unlike anything the Hoops encounter in domestic competition.</p> <h2>Key Factors</h2> <p>Celtic's away European form under Rodgers has been patchy at best. The manager's tactical approach often works brilliantly at Celtic Park but can struggle when forced to break down defensive sides on hostile territory.</p> <p>Tuesday's second leg will test whether lessons have been learned from previous continental disappointments.</p> <p>Kairat will be without their brightest talent - 17-year-old Dastan Satpaev is suspended after picking up a yellow card in Glasgow. The Chelsea-bound winger was arguably their most dangerous player in the first leg, causing problems down the flanks with his pace and directness. His absence significantly weakens their attacking threat.</p> <p>However, the Kazakhs have shown impressive defensive discipline throughout their qualifying campaign. They've conceded just four goals in seven European matches this season, suggesting they know how to stay organised when it matters most.</p> <h2>Kairat vs Celtic Prediction</h2> <p>Celtic's superior quality should eventually tell, but this won't be straightforward. The travel, conditions, and pressure of needing to score create a perfect storm for potential upset. Kairat only need a single goal to put serious pressure on the visitors.</p> <p>Rodgers will likely adopt a more aggressive approach than usual, knowing that defensive caution could prove costly. Celtic's attacking players - particularly Kyogo Furuhashi and Liel Abada - must step up in unfamiliar surroundings.</p> <p>Prediction: <a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/soccer/uefa-competitions/uefa-champions-league-qualifiers/kairat-almaty-v-celtic-9540451">Celtic to edge through 1-0 or 2-1</a>, but expect a nervy night for the travelling support. The Hoops' class should ultimately prevail, though not without significant drama in the Kazakhstan heat.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>