European Exit Complete - Now, Celtic Enter a Pivotal Two-Week Period

Now their European journey is over, Celtic now face a season-defining two-week spell.

By 14 March, they might be cruising in the title race with the wind at their backs and into the Scottish Cup semi-finals.

Or, they could be still struggling to retain the championship and facing the prospect of a trophyless campaign.

The first stop is a trip to Ibrox on Sunday for a massive league clash, with Celtic behind Rangers by two points having played one match fewer, with Hearts six clear of the champions.

Then it is a journey in midweek to Aberdeen, before heading back to Ibrox in the Scottish Cup quarter-final and then hosting high-flying and tough Motherwell.

Six of their following seven matches are away from Celtic Park. This much-maligned Celtic squad is about to be put under severe pressure after a rollercoaster opening months of the season.

"We can expect a lot of twists and turns," commented a ex-Celtic player. "It wouldn't shock me if the league goes to the final day. But they will have to do it over the coming handful of games. You have to be relentless, otherwise they will not win the trophies."

Manager Faces Selection 'Dilemma'

Although the victory over Stuttgart proving moot in Celtic's quest to reach the last 16 of the Europa League, it could still turn out to be significant.

The manager rotated a large number of his first eleven and some of the fringe players delivered eye-catching displays to claim the club's maiden win in Germany.

Luke McCowan calmly slotted the decisive goal after just 28 seconds and was a positive influence, while in the back four, several defenders stood out in a gutsy performance.

Murray especially made his case to start next to Liam Scales. A superb block stood out and he was assured when defending corners.

But the most discussed performance was delivered by back-up goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo as he played his part in a first Celtic clean sheet in six matches.

The first-choice goalkeeper has faced heavy criticism after a string of mistakes. The 26-year-old was called upon and made six saves, in a display described as "flawless" by a former Celtic midfielder.

A former Celtic goalkeeper believes Sinisalo performed well enough to start against Rangers on Sunday.

"He had some excellent saves and looked calm when he had the ball and had good anticipation," was the assessment. "It's a big decision to make at the weekend. On that performance, I would be giving him the nod. Give him a run in the team now."

The Celtic manager agreed that a number of individuals have given him "plenty to consider".

"[Sinisalo] was outstanding in the game, exceptionally. He's the talk all round the dressing room," the manager said. "He's got a lot of talent."

'Pivotal' Rangers Test Lies Ahead

The additional positive of Celtic's win was that they demonstrated they can grind out a victory.

Historically, Celtic have arrived and typically sought to control possession from start to finish against every domestic opponent.

But this more fragile side had looked increasingly vulnerable this year, often conceding more than one goal per game.

Having not won at Ibrox in four attempts and considering Rangers have won their last ten home matches, a show of resilience in Germany was well-timed.

Might Celtic take a somewhat more cautious approach? Right now, it is all about winning.

"You don't need to have most of the ball to win the game," observed an pundit. "You've got to work hard, defend well, get a slice of fortune and have a good goalkeeper."

"Celtic have not played well this season, but they are still in contention [in the league]. They retain a chance, with a match to spare. The players will take great confidence from tonight - the weekend will be a decisive one."