Celtic Stage Remarkable Comeback in Rotterdam
Interim manager Martin O'Neill orchestrated a memorable European night for Celtic as the Scottish champions came from behind to secure a 3-1 victory against Feyenoord in Rotterdam. The crucial Europa League win breathes new life into Celtic's continental campaign and marks their first away victory in Europe since their triumph over Ferencvaros four years ago under Ange Postecoglou.
First Half Turnaround Sees Celtic Take Control
The match began dramatically with Feyenoord taking an early lead in the 11th minute. Celtic were caught out by a ball over the top while defender Auston Trusty was returning from an adventurous run deep into Feyenoord territory. Sem Steijn provided the assist for Ayase Ueda to open the scoring, triggering a display of red flares from sections of the home support.
Celtic responded strongly despite an early miss from Luke McCowan, who hit the bar from close range. The visitors equalised in the 31st minute when McCowan's lofted pass found Reo Hatate, who cleverly hooked the ball to the far post for Yang Hyun-jun to score from close range.
The Scottish side completed their first-half turnaround just before the interval through pressing excellence. Daizen Maeda charged down goalkeeper Timon Wellenreuther's attempted pass, with the ball breaking to Reo Hatate who finished first time from 22 yards to give Celtic the lead.
Second Half Consolidation and Late Clincher
With Feyenoord's most vocal supporters locked out due to UEFA sanctions, Celtic controlled the early stages of the second half. The hosts applied pressure and came close to equalising when Gaoussou Diarra's header struck the bar, but Celtic held firm.
The match was sealed in the 82nd minute when substitute Benjamin Nygren scored Celtic's third goal. More determined pressing from Maeda disrupted Wellenreuther as he attempted to collect a low cross, with the ball breaking to Nygren who fired in off the bar from eight yards out.
Historical Significance and Campaign Implications
This victory represents Celtic's first win in the Netherlands since Martin O'Neill's team defeated Ajax 3-1 in 2001 during his maiden Champions League qualifier in charge. The interim manager, who previously led Celtic to the 2003 UEFA Cup final and famous victories against European giants, appears to have set the platform for another European run before his expected departure.
The result lifts Celtic to seven points in the Europa League group stage, keeping their hopes alive for progression in the competition. With Wilfried Nancy anticipated to take over before Roma visit Celtic Park on December 11th, this performance provides positive momentum for the Scottish champions' continental ambitions.
In other Europa League action, AS Roma ended Midtjylland's perfect record with a 2-1 home victory at the Stadio Olimpico. Neil El Aynaoui's early volley and Stephan El Shaarawy's late finish secured the win for the Serie A leaders against the previously unbeaten Danish side.
