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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Sport
Matt Bryan

Celtic's Europa League opponents AZ Alkmaar suffer shock defeat days away from Parkhead clash

Celtic may have been given a huge boost ahead of their Europa League play-off with AZ Alkmaar after the Dutch side suffered a shock defeat in their league opener today.

RKC Waalwijk stole all three points from Pascal Jansen's men who travel to Glasgow to face the Hoops on Wednesday evening.

A goal by Michiel Kramer on the cusp of half-time was enough to seal the victory for the home side.

It came after transfer-linked captain Teun Koopmeiners was left out of the starting line-up by Alkmaar.

The influential midfielder was introduced on the hour mark but couldn't stop his side slipping to a disappointing defeat.

Preparations ahead of the Celtic tie have been less than ideal for Jansen's side who finished third in the Eredivisie last season.

Meanwhile, Waalwijk only escaped relegation on goal difference and would have been relegated the season prior had the season not been halted due to the pandemic.

AZ looked vulnerable in defence, with Kramer's winner looking very much on the cards before it arrived.

Ange Postecoglou 's side have scored 13 times in their last three outings and will look to capitalise on any frailty in the Dutch outfit's backline.

Do you want an exclusive pre-season Celtic preview - both in your inbox and through your letterbox? Head over here to find out more and secure your copy.

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