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.
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5. Kieran Tierney - 6/10
A few bursts forward but diligent at back too. Some crosses he'd like back but otherwise fine. | Getty Images
6. Callum McGregor - 5/10
Struggled to grab a hold of a cagey first half but pressing limited visitor chances. Poor clearance for second Celta Vigo goal. | SNS Group
7. Mika Baur - 7/10
Good pressing forced Celta Vigo into areas they didn't want to be, albeit at expense of technical class. Then a big moment. | SNS Group
8. Benjamin Nygren - 6/10
Chasing shadows to an extent as Celta Vigo controlled possession. Key contribution with challenge in build-up to opener and almost snuck a near-post effort in. | SNS Group