Celtic is preparing for one of the most challenging European away trips, facing off against Serbia’s formidable Red Star Belgrade at their home stadium, the Marakana. Known for its intense and intimidating environment, the Marakana is a fortress that has seen many renowned teams struggle under its oppressive atmosphere, courtesy of the infamous Red Star ultras, known as Delije.
Nicknamed ‘Hellgrade’ by those who’ve felt the pressure, the stadium’s narrow tunnels and the ever-present riot police add to the game’s nerve-wracking build-up. Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool team crumbled here six years ago, succumbing to two early goals and the relentless pressure from the vibrant and passionate Red Star fans. Similarly, Manchester City, despite being reigning European champions, experienced a close call, narrowly escaping with a 2-3 win after being caught on the backfoot by the electrifying environment.
Celtic now face the challenge of controlling their nerves amidst the chaos. Red Star’s supporters, not shy from controversy, have a history of making bold and striking statements, their actions often creating waves across social media. In a past encounter, they famously revealed a tank outside the stadium—symbolizing the team’s resilience and power underlined by their slogan that “The Star Machine worked.”
The Delije, which translates to “tough guys,” are notorious for their fierce support and have been involved in several high-intensity clashes, especially during the heated Eternal Derby against rivals Partizan. The notorious nature of these clashes have sometimes led to tragic outcomes, emphasizing the fervor and fervency of the supporters.
As Celtic prepares for this daunting task, they must draw from resilience and past experiences, focusing on their strategy to combat both Red Star’s squad and their unwavering fans. This confrontation at the Marakana is not just a test of skill but also one of mental fortitude, with players needing to tune out the external chaos to concentrate on the game at hand. The encounter with Red Star Belgrade is more than just a match; it is a battle through a tunnel of fear, with history amplifying every step taken onto the field.