Martin O’Neill makes his selection for a huge European night as Celtic prepare to face Benfica in Lisbon.

Martin O’Neill has named his Celtic starting eleven for tonight’s Europa League showdown against Benfica in Lisbon, and there are some fascinating decisions in a selection that will face a serious examination on the European stage.

The Celtic manager has opted for a side containing youth, experience and attacking ambition, with several players facing one of their biggest tests in a Hoops jersey.

Celtic Starting XI Confirmed

Celtic: Sinisalo, Donovan, Murray, Trusty, Tierney, McGregor (C), Baur, Sørensen, Tounekti, Durán, Høgh.

O’Neill has selected Viljami Sinisalo in goal, with Colby Donovan, Dane Murray, Auston Trusty and Kieran Tierney forming the defensive unit.

Captain Callum McGregor leads the midfield alongside Mika Baur and Oliver Sørensen, while Sebastian Tounekti, Camilo Durán and Kasper Høgh provide the attacking threat.

It is a selection that suggests Celtic intend to offer more than simply stubborn resistance in Portugal.

O’Neill Faces a Serious Defensive Examination

The inclusion of Murray and Donovan places considerable responsibility on two younger players against formidable European opposition.

With Cameron Carter-Vickers absent from the starting eleven, Trusty must provide experience and leadership alongside Murray.

Tierney’s experience could prove invaluable, particularly when Benfica attempt to stretch Celtic across the pitch.

For me, the biggest concern is whether Celtic can maintain their defensive organisation without surrendering control of midfield.

Strong Options on the Celtic Bench

Substitutes: Johnstone, Lotomba, Scales, Nygren, McCowan, Osmand, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Hassan, Forrest, Ralston, Kennedy and Clearie.

Benjamin Nygren provides an attacking option, while Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain offers experience and an alternative in midfield.

James Forrest and Haissem Hassan give O’Neill further choices if Celtic need additional attacking energy.

Liam Scales, Anthony Ralston and Jordan Lotomba offer defensive cover.

Jota is absent from the European squad despite his recent return to domestic action.

Celtic Must Show Courage in Lisbon

Celtic cannot afford to approach this occasion with fear.

Benfica will undoubtedly test their concentration, organisation and composure, but O’Neill’s players must also demonstrate that they belong at this level.

Durán and Høgh have an opportunity to make their presence felt, while McGregor’s leadership will be crucial.

The team has been selected. The talking stops now.

It is time for Celtic to deliver a European performance worthy of the jersey.