Celtic’s European hopes beyond the league phase this season are under threat after their Europa League clash with Celta Vigo ended in a 2-1 defeat.
The La Liga side controlled possession early on, before a home penalty claim was waved away, following a Callum Osmand burst into the away box. A cagey affair was playing out with just the couple shots on target prior to the break, one a tame Camillo Duran header.
Mika Baur’s made the net, a Hasseim Hassan cross moved into the path of the German midfielder, who coolly converted low into the corner almost immediately after half-time. Liam Scales then nodded an effort onto the bar with Celtic pressure on the visiting goal increasing. Then, somewhat against the run of play, Javi Rodriguez headed home from a free-kick. His wonderful low effort beyond Sam Johnstone minutes later made a double punch that Celtic failed to recover from.
After defeats versus Ferencvaros and Benfica, Celtic are on zero points from three league phase matches, hosting Besiktas on November 5. Next up is Hibs in the Premiership at Easter Road, having won 7-1 versus Hearts last time out, and here’s how we rated Celtic players in their latest Europa League clash.
The Scottish Football Social Club is presented by BetSBK.com | 18+ | Gamble Responsibly
1. Sam Johnstone - 5/10
Handed a European start ahead of Viljami Sinisalo.= in the only change. Couple of loose passes out from the back but otherwise untroubled outside the obvious. | SNS Group
2. Colby Donovan - 6/10
No real issues caused down his side. That's quite remarkable given he wasn't exactly helped by Hassan ahead of him. Only time he was properly beat was at second goal, perhaps telling, as was left exposed on more than one occasion. Booked. | SNS Group
3. Dane Murray - 5/10
Looked to be growing in stature with extended run of games. Looked more confident playing out but then opponent gets the run of him for leveller and confidence started to evaporate from there. | SNS Group
4. Liam Scales - 6/10
Lead by example by progressing play out from the back and being safety first when needed. Hit the bar then booked upon giving away free-kick that lead to goal. Booked. | SNS Group