Celtic’s Champions League exit amidst dramatic collapse
Martin O’Neill accepted full responsibility after Celtic surrendered a four-goal aggregate advantage in a catastrophic Champions League collapse against LASK, reports BritPanorama.
The Bhoys appeared set to qualify, having led 3-0 from the first leg, before faltering in the second half at the Raiffeisen Arena. Celtic ultimately suffered a 5-4 aggregate defeat after extra time, losing 5-1 on the night, marking a humiliating end to another campaign at the qualifying stage.
This result follows a disappointing exit at the same point of the competition last year, where Celtic were eliminated on penalties by Kazakhstan side Kairat Almaty. O’Neill could offer no defence for his team’s lack of response as their commanding advantage slipped away in Austria.
“I’m responsible for this one,” O’Neill admitted. “Without a doubt. Naturally it took me a long time to get over the Uefa Cup final in 2003 but this was majorly disappointing.” He reflected on the significance of the matchup, comparing it unfavourably to prior high-stakes games.
Despite a promising start to the season, Celtic’s implosion has significant sporting and financial implications. The absence of Champions League qualification removes vital revenue that could affect their transfer strategy. “The qualification for the Champions League is major, it’s major in every aspect,” O’Neill noted.
Celtic’s captain Callum McGregor echoed O’Neill’s sentiments, acknowledging the team’s shortcomings throughout the match. “We got what we deserved. We were passive all night. We looked scared to go and win the game,” he said, indicating a lack of conviction from the side.
McGregor further stated, “This is what it’s like to play at Celtic. You have to bounce back, you have to show a reaction and that’s what Celtic are all about.” With the next fixture against Falkirk scheduled for Saturday, the team will not have long to recover from this setback.
As Celtic reflects on this dramatic exit, the questions linger: How will they rebuild from such a fall? And what does it reveal about the character within the squad? Time will tell as they seek to regain their footing on the pitch.
