Celtic secured their first Champions League win in a decade with Gustaf Lagerbielke’s injury-time header, ending a six-year drought and securing a spirited victory over Feyenoord.
Feyenoord Falters in Face of Celtic Onslaught
Luis Palma converted a penalty in the first half, giving Feyenoord a lead. Yankuba Minteh’s strike leveled the score with less than 10 minutes remaining. Celtic, resigned to the bottom spot in Group E, unleashed a relentless attack, with Lagerbielke’s header sending Celtic Park into ecstasy. The match was a thrilling match between Celtic and Feyenoord, with Celtic aiming for the Europa League.
Rodgers Reflects on Campaign
Reflecting on the campaign, Rodgers expressed confidence in Celtic’s ability to compete at the highest level. Despite tonight’s dead rubber match, the team showcased moments that proved their worth. Early glimpses of promising play dispelled doubts about Celtic’s commitment in this seemingly inconsequential fixture.
Palma’s Penalty and Hart’s Heroics
Celtic’s first-half lead was courtesy of Palma’s ice-cold penalty, a consequence of Zerrouki’s grappling with Scales. The stands erupted in rare celebrations. Goalkeeper Joe Hart played a pivotal role, making a series of superb saves, including a crucial denial of Santiago Gimenez’s attempt, with Callum McGregor blocking the ensuing rebound from Quinten Timber.
Feyenoord’s Intensity and Celtic’s Counter
Feyenoord maintained relentless intensity post-interval, forcing Celtic to absorb pressure and counter strategically. Palma, possibly ruing a missed opportunity that struck the post, felt the soul being sucked out of the stands with Minteh’s equalizing strike. However, Lagerbielke emerged as the hero, redeeming Celtic from their catastrophic run in the competition.
Liam Scales Shines
Liam Scales, the standout performer, earned the title of Player of the Match. His contributions, both defensively and in attack, played a pivotal role in Celtic’s triumph. The match showcased the resilience and determination of a Celtic side eager to end their Champions League campaign on a high note.
In a season marked by highs and lows, Celtic’s triumphant homecoming serves as a fitting finale, leaving fans with a glimmer of hope for future European endeavors.
FAQs
What was the key moment that secured Celtic’s first Champions League win in a decade?
Lagerbielke’s injury-time header against Feyenoord was the decisive moment that secured Celtic’s first Champions League win in 10 years.
Who scored the penalty for Feyenoord in the first half of the match against Celtic?
Luis Palma scored the penalty for Feyenoord in the first half, giving them the initial lead.
Why did Celtic unleash a relentless attack in the match against Feyenoord?
Despite being in the bottom spot, Celtic aimed for a spirited victory and Europa League qualification, with Gustaf Lagerbielke’s injury-time header ending a six-year Champions League win drought.
How did Joe Hart contribute to Celtic’s victory against Feyenoord?
Goalkeeper Joe Hart played a pivotal role, making crucial saves, including denying Santiago Gimenez’s attempt and blocking the ensuing rebound, ensuring Celtic’s triumph and ending their catastrophic run in the competition.