Celtic vs. Benfica kicks off on Wednesday in Group G in the first round of fixtures oin this year’s Champions League. The game will start at 2.45 p.m. ET and can be watched online through live stream (link provided below).

Celtic are consistently among the best two sides in Scotland but have struggled in European competition over the years. Many times their loyal fans have been left disappointed with early exits and placid displays when better opposition come up in the continent.

However, the Scottish champions will be looking to get off to a good start in their Champions League campaign this year, and they will fancy their chances in this home fixture against Benfica. If they can gain three points today then it could give them the confidence to go on and qualify for the knock out stages of the competition.

But Celtic will be without Beram Kayal and Joe Ledley, who are both out with injuries sustained during their Champions League qualifier match against Helsingborgs. Striker Georgios Samaras, as well as winger Paddy McCourt and midfielder Filip Twardzik also miss tonight's match through injury.

Benfica will also be without captain Luisao and defender Maxi Pereira through suspension.Carlos Martins has also been declared unfit with a thigh injury which keeps him out of tonight’s action.

Luisao was given a two month ban by FIFA for pushing a referee in a pre-season game. FIFA sought to make an example of the Brazilian center half to make it clear that abuse and physical attacks on referees are unacceptable.

Celtic manager Neil Lennon has said: "He is a very important player to Benfica. He is their captain and a very experienced Brazilian international with a lot of class and great leadership qualities. If he was to miss the game, that would be a huge bonus for us."

Celtic vs Benfica kicks off at 2.45 p.m. ET and can be watched online through live stream by clicking here.

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