\n<\/p>\n
The sides that come ninth to 24th will compete in the two-legged knockout play-off ties in February and there could be two British sides involved.<\/p>\n
Forest fell to a 1-0 defeat by Braga<\/a> in Portugal, a result that practically confirms Sean Dyche’s side will be in the play-offs.<\/p>\n Mathematically, Forest, in 16th, can still finish eighth, but would need to beat Hungarian team Ferencvaros at the City Ground and hope the eight sides directly above them all dropped points.<\/p>\n However, Forest will still be keen to win next Thursday as the sides coming ninth to 16th will play the second legs of their knockout play-off ties at home.<\/p>\n Celtic were 2-0 ahead against Bologna, but down to 10 men, before the Italians fought back to earn a 2-2 draw.<\/a> However, the point leaves Martin O’Neill’s side on eight points and occupying 24th spot, the last of the play-off places.<\/p>\n They will guarantee a top-24 position if they beat Dutch side Utrecht at home, but are likely to be out if they drop points.<\/p>\n “We’ve given ourselves a chance – that’s all, a chance – of qualifying and from that viewpoint, I’m delighted,” said O’Neill.<\/p>\n