A Late Lifeline for Celtic in Champions League Showdown
Celtic’s Champions League play-off tie against Bayern Munich is very much alive after a dramatic 2-1 defeat at Parkhead. Daizen Maeda’s late goal in the 79th minute gave the Scottish champions a glimmer of hope, ensuring they head to Munich for the second leg with a fighting chance. Despite dominating possession for much of the game, Bayern’s clinical finishing had put them in control, thanks to Michael Olise’s stunning strike just before halftime and Harry Kane’s unmarked header early in the second half. However, Celtic’s never-say-die spirit shone through as they pulled one back through Maeda’s close-range header from a corner, setting up a thrilling second leg.
Bayern’s Clinical Edge Punishes Celtic’s Mistakes
Bayern Munich demonstrated their European pedigree with two moments of brilliance that left Celtic trailing. Michael Olise, the former Crystal Palace winger, broke Celtic’s stubborn resistance with a near-post thunderbolt just seconds before halftime. The goal came against the run of play, as Celtic had been disciplined and compact for most of the first half. Shortly after the restart, Bayern doubled their lead through Harry Kane, who was inexplicably left unmarked at the back post to volley home his 29th goal of the season. These moments of quality highlighted the gulf in class between the two sides, but Celtic refused to surrender.
Maeda’s Late Strike Reignites Celtic’s Hopes
Celtic’s resilience paid off in the final stages as Daizen Maeda’s scrappy goal from a corner gave them a lifeline. Trailing 2-0, the hosts pushed hard for a way back into the tie, and Maeda’s opportunism at the far post ensured they would travel to Munich with a fighting chance. The goal was Celtic’s fourth in the Champions League this season for Maeda, who has been a consistent threat in Europe. Despite their late pressure, Celtic couldn’t find an equalizer, as Manuel Neuer stood firm in the Bayern goal. The result ended Celtic’s 32-match unbeaten run at home, but the mood in the camp remains optimistic ahead of the second leg.
Managers’ Reactions: Optimism and Caution
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers remained upbeat despite the narrow defeat, praising his players’ spirit and belief. “The last 25 minutes, we started to press the game, we were more active at the top end of the pitch and you see what it brought – aggression. Our football starts to come alive and then we get the goal,” Rodgers said. He emphasized that the tie is far from over, urging his players to leave everything on the pitch in Munich. “We’ve shown we can play football and be a threat. We’re still right in the tie,” he added.
On the other hand, Bayern Munich boss Vincent Kompany struck a cautious note, acknowledging the difficulty of the match. “They put us under pressure at the end and we had to stay strong, which we did,” Kompany said. He praised his team’s patience and composure, particularly in the face of Celtic’s passionate home support. Harry Kane, Bayern’s star striker, also reflected on the game, saying, “Whenever you win a game like this, you’re always pleased because it’s not an easy place to come.” Both managers were quick to highlight areas for improvement ahead of the second leg.
Celtic’s Slim Chance of a Comeback
While Celtic’s late goal has given them hope, the task ahead is daunting. Former Celtic defender Mark Wilson described their chances of overturning the deficit as “very slim,” noting that Celtic have struggled to win away games in Europe. The Scottish champions now face the uphill task of defeating Bayern at the Allianz Arena, a venue where they have historically struggled. However, the late rally at Parkhead and Maeda’s goal have revitalized belief within the squad. Celtic’s recent European performances have shown significant improvement since their 7-1 thrashing by Borussia Dortmund earlier in the campaign, and Rodgers will take encouragement from their ability to compete with one of Europe’s elite.
The Road Ahead: Can Celtic Pull Off the Impossible?
The final 10 minutes of the first leg showcased Celtic’s potential to unsettle Bayern, with the home crowd roaring them on. However, the absence of that vocal support in Munich could prove a significant hurdle. Celtic’s away form in Europe has been inconsistent this season, with just one draw from four games on the road. For them to pull off an upset, they will need to replicate the intensity and belief they showed in the latter stages of the first leg. With their Champions League campaign on the line, Celtic have nothing to lose and everything to gain. The stage is set for a thrilling second leg in Munich, where the Scottish champions will aim to write history against all odds.
