Celtic's Europa League Hopes Fading After Late Collapse Against Celta Vigo

Celtic's aspirations for advancing in the Europa League are in jeopardy following a dramatic second-half turnaround by Celta Vigo. The Spanish side scored twice in three minutes to secure a victory that leaves Celtic with no points from their opening three group stage matches.

Mika Baur had given the Scottish club the lead early in the second half with a composed finish. Liam Scales came close to extending Celtic's advantage with a header that struck the top of the crossbar.

However, the momentum shifted decisively in the 68th minute when Javi Rodriguez equalized with a powerful header from a Hugo Alvarez free-kick. Rodriguez then found the net again shortly after with a strike from the edge of the area, completing Celta Vigo's comeback.

The defeat places Celtic in a precarious position in the 36-team table, second from bottom with five matches remaining.

In the post-match player ratings, goalkeeper Sam Johnstone received a 5.5, with the report noting he would be disappointed not to have saved the equalizer, though he had no chance with the second goal. Defender Colby Donovan was rated 5, appearing to tire as the game progressed and struggling to contain Celta's pace. Dane Murray earned a 6, making several blocks but allowing Rodriguez space for the first goal. Liam Scales also received a 6, caught out of position on occasions and unlucky with his header hitting the woodwork.

Kieran Tierney was given a 6 for his dangerous crosses from the left and for keeping Iago Aspas relatively quiet. Captain Callum McGregor had a subdued performance, rated 5, with a poor clearance contributing to the winning goal. Mika Baur was the highest-rated Celtic player with an 8 for his well-taken volley and overall performance, while Benjamin Nygren received a 6, growing into the game and seeing a powerful shot blocked.

Haissem Hassan was rated 6, with his delivery inconsistent but providing the assist for Baur's goal, though he was noted for switching off defensively at times. Callum Osmand earned a 7 as the home side's biggest threat in the first half, despite missing a chance from 20 yards. Camilo Duran was rated 6, working hard but getting little service in the Celta box.

Substitutes included Forrest, Hogh, Sorenson, and Tounekti. Manager Martin O'Neill was rated 5, visibly frustrated as his team let a lead slip, with progression in the Europa League now looking unlikely.

Celta Vigo's lineup featured Radu (6) in goal, with defenders Rodriguez (8), Cacares (6), and Alonso (6). The midfield comprised Rueda (6.5), Febas (6.5), Burcio (6), and Carreira (7). The attacking trio included Iago Aspas (6), Jutgla (6), and Alvarez (6). Substitutions for Celta included Moroba, Swedberg, Duran, Antanon, and Galan. The match was officiated by Georgi Kabakov from Bulgaria.