Starts don’t get much faster than the one Celtic made in Stuttgart, but for much of the game it seemed more likely that the German hosts would find a leveller and motor away.

By the 25th minute, McCowan’s goal was the only shot Celtic had taken as Stuttgart had made 18 entries into the final third.

Yet by half-time, it was still 1-0 and Celtic’s backline was holding firm.

The second half followed a similar rhythm. Five minutes in, and Celtic had only completed five passes. In the second half, they had just four touches in Stuttgart’s box.

But such was the strength of Scots’ rearguard, O’Neill may well have a headache over his Sunday selections.

Will it be Brentford loanee Ben Arthur or Dane Murray? The latter was impressive on the night and made one superb block that denied Undav from close range.

In goal, will it be under-fire Schmeichel or number two Sinisalo, who kept Celtic in front with numerous saves? Calls for a change between the sticks have been loud from the stands, and will only grow following the Finn’s fine performance.

Up top, will the attacking trio who flourished on the counter – Maeda, McCowan and Adamu – get the nod?

On another night, Maeda might have made it 2-0 within five minutes, but he could not get a touch on Adamu’s cross.

Either way, Celtic will be content with their work. A three-goal win was a distant dream and failing that, they did everything else asked of them.

Now the question is, can they do it on Sunday with league contention on the line? Can they show another performance full of grit and heart at Ibrox?

Only time will tell.