Celtic’s European hopes wobble as Celta Vigo Lightning trio dominate

Celtic’s European campaign slipped further when they fell 2-1 to Celta Vigo in a Europa League encounter, leaving their hopes beyond the group stage in doubt. The Celta Vigo Lightning trio stole the show, while a burst from Callum Osmand sparked early drama. Here the Celtic players were rated after the loss.

Match narrative and key moments

The La Liga side controlled possession from the outset and saw a home penalty claim waved away after Callum Osmand surged into the away box. A cagey first half produced only two shots on target, one a tame header from Camillo Duran.

Mika Baur broke the deadlock shortly after the interval, finishing from a Hasseim Hassan cross that found the German midfielder, who coolly slipped the ball low into the corner. Liam Scales forced a rebound onto the bar before Javi Rodriguez headed home from a free‑kick, delivering a double‑punch that Celtic could not recover from.

Group standing and upcoming fixtures

After defeats to Ferencvaros and Benfica, Celtic sit on zero points from three group matches, sitting 35th in a 36‑team group. Their next European test is at home to Besiktas on 5 November, while domestically they travel to Hibs after a 7‑1 victory over Hearts.

Player ratings and squad changes

Goalkeeper Sam Johnstone earned a 5/10 rating after being handed a European start in place of Viljami Sinisalo. Defender Colby Donovan received 6/10, despite being exposed on several occasions and picking up a booking.

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Midfielder Dane Murray was given 5/10, showing growing confidence before the opposition levelled the play. Liam Scales also earned 6/10 for leading from the back and forcing the bar‑hit, though he was booked for a foul that led to a goal.

Martin O’Neill made only one change, reinstating Johnstone, while injuries ruled Carl Starfelt out and left World Cup striker Borja Iglesias unavailable.

Atmosphere and reactions

The usual roar of the Green Brigade was missing, leaving empty seats in both tiers and a muted atmosphere. Shaun Maloney urged the squad to fight for Celtic’s reputation in Europe, bluntly calling the campaign “fast becoming an embarrassing affair”.

Callum Osmand was highlighted as the best option on the left flank, though the service to him was lacking. Meanwhile, a wayward pass from Callum McGregor and a blocked strike from Hugo Burcio illustrated Celtic’s struggles to create clear chances.

Camilo Duran received a booking for dissent, and Kieran Tierney’s cross found Duran as the only Celtic player in the box. End.