Celtic secured a spot in the Champions League knockout stage for the first time in 12 years, courtesy of a late own goal by Loris Benito, sealing a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Young Boys.
Despite facing numerous setbacks—including a missed penalty, three disallowed goals, and a red card for Daizen Maeda—the Scottish champions held their ground in the Champions League to guarantee a top-24 finish in the new 36-team format.
Key Moments in the Champions League:
- Frustrating First Half:
Celtic’s Kyogo Furuhashi had three goals disallowed, while Arne Engels missed a penalty after Greg Taylor was fouled in the box. - Second-Half Heroics:
Goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, who extended his contract earlier in the day, made a stunning double save to deny Darian Males, keeping Celtic’s hopes alive. - The Decisive Goal:
Substitute Adam Idah’s saved effort deflected off Young Boys’ Loris Benito for an own goal in the 81st minute, securing the victory. - Drama in the Final Minutes:
Maeda received a red card after a VAR review for kicking out in frustration, leaving Celtic to endure a relentless aerial assault during stoppage time.
Reactions:
Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers expressed pride in the team’s achievement:
“It’s a little bit of history created. For the supporters, it’s an amazing night. We kept going, kept fighting, kept believing, and got the points.”
Rodgers also highlighted the team’s remarkable turnaround in Europe, having won three of their seven matches in the competition’s new format.
What’s Next:
The victory lifts Celtic to 18th place, with a trip to Aston Villa next week. With 12 points secured, the team’s sights are set on sustaining their progress in Europe’s elite competition.
Celtic’s return to the knockout stages marks a significant milestone, showcasing resilience and determination in a dramatic campaign.