Gurban Gurbanov: We knew we were going to play against a good team

Baku. 30 July. REPORT.AZ/ Celtic boss Ronny Deila pointed out his team's defensive strengths and the belief he has in them to make their way into the play-off round, Report informs citing Evening Times.

Ronny Deila believes a clean sheet could be the key to Champions League progress after Dedryck Boyata's late header gave Celtic a narrow 1-0 victory over Qarabag at Parkhead, the newspaper writes.

Deila said: "It is hard to say if 1-0 will be enough. The game is not won yet. It was an even game. We had morechances than them, if they had one.

"I am very happy that we didn't concede anything, we met a very good team who are hard to play against, so of course it makes it easier. It is vital.

"We are in a good position. If we score then they need three and that is a positive. First of all, we need a team over there. I think player for player we are a stronger team.

"I believe in my players. I think we are individually good and have strong qualities.

"We have speed in the team and hard-working players in midfield and are strong in defence. The two central defenders are class.

"They are also a good team, they have had the same coach for seven years working in the same system.

"They are relaxed and concentrated, so we need to put together a very good team performance if we are going to get through. We have a good chance with 1-0."

Qarabag boss Gurban Gurbanov congratulated Deila and Celtic on their win, but expects his side to have the advantage in front of their own fans next week.

He said: "We knew we were going to play against a good team and that it would be difficult here and 1-0 is good for Celtic.

"It was exciting to play here in front of so many supporters.